Yellow Mimic (Chocolate) Tang (Acanthurus pyroferus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
• Max Size: 8 inches
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • Ammonia: 0 ppm
  • Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Comprehensive Guide: Yellow Mimic (Chocolate) Tang (Acanthurus pyroferus)

The Yellow Mimic Tang, also known as the Chocolate Tang, is a beautiful species commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region. Here is a detailed guide on caring for this species in a saltwater aquarium:

Habitat

The Yellow Mimic Tang is typically found in coral reefs and lagoons with plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas. It prefers areas with moderate to strong water flow.

Reef Safe

The Yellow Mimic 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 Yellow Mimic Tang can grow up to 8 inches long, making it a medium-sized tang suitable for larger aquariums.

Temperament

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish. However, it may exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species or tangs.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no distinct visual differences between males and females of the Yellow Mimic Tang species.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Yellow Mimic Tang is around 10-15 years with proper care and a suitable environment.

Diet in Aquariums

The Yellow Mimic Tang is a herbivorous species and should be fed a varied diet of high-quality marine algae, seaweed, and commercially available herbivore flakes or pellets. Supplementing their diet with occasional meaty foods like brine or mysis shrimp is also beneficial.

Aquascaping Recommendations

Provide plenty of live rock with hiding places and open swimming areas. Ensure the aquarium has moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat.

Captive Bred Availability

The Yellow Mimic Tang is rarely available as captive-bred specimens. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Yellow Mimic Tang is generally compatible with other peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to a reef tank with delicate corals. It is best to avoid housing it with aggressive or territorial fish.

5 Recommended Tankmates

Here are five suitable tankmates for the Yellow Mimic Tang:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are peaceful and can form a symbiotic relationship with anemones.
2. Firefish – Firefish are peaceful and add vibrant color to the aquarium.
3. Banggai Cardinalfish – Banggai Cardinalfish are peaceful and have unique patterns.
4. Royal/Bicolor Dottyback– Royal Dottybacks are peaceful and have striking purple and yellow coloration.
5. Yellowtail Damselfish – Yellowtail Damselfish are hardy and can add activity to the tank.

Other Common Names

The Yellow Mimic Tang is also known as the Chocolate Tang or the Mimic Surgeonfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers

1. Can the Yellow Mimic Tang be kept in a smaller tank?

Due to their active nature and potential growth, it is recommended to keep the Yellow Mimic Tang in a tank of at least 75 gallons.

2. How often should I feed my Yellow Mimic Tang?

Feed your Yellow Mimic Tang small amounts of food multiple times daily. Aim for two to three feedings to ensure they receive enough nutrition.

3. Can the Yellow Mimic Tang be kept with aggressive fish?

No, it is best to avoid housing the Yellow Mimic Tang with aggressive or territorial fish as it may lead to stress or aggression.

4. Can the Yellow Mimic Tang be kept in a reef tank?

The Yellow Mimic Tang is reef-safe and can be kept in a reef tank. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to a tank with delicate corals.

5. How long do Yellow Mimic Tangs typically live?

With proper care and a suitable environment, Yellow Mimic Tangs can live for 10-15 years.