Purple Tang – Red Sea (Zebrasoma xanthurum)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons
• Max Size: Up to 10 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Purple Tang – Red Sea (Zebrasoma xanthurum)

The Purple Tang, also known as Zebrasoma xanthurum, is a popular saltwater fish species among aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed information about this species and its care requirements.

Habitat

The Purple Tang is native to the Red Sea and can be found in coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots. It prefers areas with strong water movement and ample grazing opportunities.

Reef Safe

Yes, the Purple Tang is considered reef-safe. It generally leaves corals and other invertebrates alone, making it a suitable addition to a reef aquarium.

Size

The Purple Tang can grow up to 10 inches long, making it a relatively large fish for a home aquarium. It is important to provide a tank of adequate size to accommodate its growth.

Temperament

The Purple Tang has a semi-aggressive temperament. It may exhibit territorial behavior towards other fish, especially those of a similar shape or color. Introducing it to the aquarium last or simultaneously with other fish is recommended to minimize aggression.

Sexual Dimorphism

No significant visual differences between male and female Purple Tangs make it difficult to determine their sex without genetic testing.

Lifespan

The Purple Tang has a lifespan of around 10-15 years when provided with proper care and a suitable environment.

Diet in Aquariums

The Purple Tang is a herbivorous fish that primarily feeds on marine algae in the wild. An aquarium should offer a varied diet of high-quality marine algae, seaweed, and commercially available herbivore preparations. It is also beneficial to supplement its diet with occasional meaty foods like mysis shrimp or brine shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for a Purple Tang, it is important to provide ample hiding spots and open swimming space. Incorporating live rock structures and creating a natural-looking environment with plenty of algae growth will help mimic its natural habitat.

Captive Bred Availability

The Purple Tang is not commonly available as captive-bred. Most specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. However, efforts are being made to breed them in captivity to reduce the impact on wild populations.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Purple Tang can be housed with other semi-aggressive fish species, but caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates. Avoid keeping it with other tangs or fish that have a similar body shape or coloration, as this may lead to territorial conflicts. Compatible tankmates for the Purple Tang include:

1. Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) – These tangs have a different body shape and coloration, reducing the likelihood of aggression.
2. Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.) – They are generally peaceful and can coexist with the Purple Tang.
3. Royal Dottyback (Pictichromis paccagnellae) – These small, colorful fish make good tankmates for the Purple Tang.
4. Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.) – They are peaceful and can add movement to the aquarium.
5. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata spp.) – These invertebrates can help keep the Purple Tang clean and free of parasites.

Other Common Names

The Purple Tang is also commonly known as the Yellowtail Sailfin Tang or Yellowtail Surgeonfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the ideal tank size for a Purple Tang?

A: The minimum tank size for a Purple Tang is 100 gallons, but a larger tank of 120 gallons or more is recommended to provide ample swimming space.

Q: Can Purple Tangs be kept in a reef aquarium?

A: Yes, Purple Tangs are considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.

Q: How often should I feed my Purple Tang?

A: It is recommended to feed your Purple Tang in small amounts multiple times a day. Aim for at least two feedings per day to ensure it receives an adequate diet.

Q: Do Purple Tangs require any special water parameters?

A: Purple Tangs prefer stable water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, salinity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 72-78°F.

Q: Can Purple Tangs be kept with other Tang species?

A: Keeping multiple tang species together is generally only recommended if in a large tank, including Purple Tangs. Tangs can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards each other.