Clown Tang – South Asia (Acanthurus lineatus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
• Max Size: 15 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Clown Tang – South Asia (Acanthurus lineatus)

The Clown Tang, also known as Acanthurus lineatus, is a species native to the waters of South Asia. It is a popular choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts due to its vibrant colors and unique markings.

Reef Safe: The Clown Tang is considered reef safe, as it generally does not bother corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to a reef tank with delicate corals.

Size: The Clown Tang can grow up to 15 inches long, making it a relatively large fish. It requires a spacious tank to accommodate its size.

Temperament: This species is known to be semi-aggressive, especially towards other tangs or similar species. It is best kept with other moderately aggressive fish.

Sexual Dimorphism: There are no significant differences in appearance between male and female Clown Tangs.

Lifespan: The Clown Tang can live up to 10 years or more in captivity with proper care.

Diet in Aquariums: The Clown Tang is a herbivore and should be fed a varied diet of high-quality marine algae, seaweed, and other vegetable-based foods. Supplementing its diet with vitamin-rich pellets or flakes is also recommended.

Aquascaping Recommendations: Provide plenty of swimming space for the Clown Tang and live rock formations to mimic its natural habitat. Creating hiding spots and caves can help reduce stress and aggression.

Captive Bred Availability: The Clown Tang is not commonly available as a captive-bred species. Most specimens found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Clown Tang can be compatible with various tankmates, but caution should be exercised when selecting companions. Suitable tankmates include:

1. Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) – Both species have similar care requirements and can coexist peacefully.
2. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) – The Clown Tang’s semi-aggressive nature is unlikely to cause issues with the peaceful Firefish Goby.
3. Blue Green Chromis (Chromis viridis) – These small schooling fish can add vibrant color to the tank and are generally compatible with the Clown Tang.
4. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) – Clown Tangs usually do not bother cleaner shrimp, making them suitable tankmates.
5. Purple Firefish (Nemateleotris decora) – This peaceful fish can coexist with the Clown Tang without major conflicts.

Other Common Names: The Clown Tang is also known as the Lined Surgeonfish or Blue-banded Surgeonfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

1. What is the recommended tank size for a Clown Tang?

The minimum tank size for a Clown Tang is 100 gallons. However, a larger tank is recommended to provide ample swimming space for this species.

2. Can Clown Tangs be kept in a reef tank?

Yes, Clown Tangs are generally considered reef-safe. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to a reef tank with delicate corals.

3. What should I feed my Clown Tang?

Clown Tangs are herbivores and should be fed a diet of marine algae, seaweed, and other vegetable-based foods. Supplementing their diet with vitamin-rich pellets or flakes is also recommended.

4. Are Clown Tangs aggressive towards other fish?

Clown Tangs can be semi-aggressive, especially towards other tangs or similar species. It is best to keep them with other moderately aggressive fish.

5. How long do Clown Tangs typically live?

With proper care, Clown Tangs can live up to 10 years or more in captivity.