Achilles Tang

• ExerciseVery high

  A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–20 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Achilles Tang (Acanthurus achilles) comes from the surge zones of Pacific reefs, particularly around Hawaii and the central Pacific, and reaches about 20 to 25 cm. Its orange teardrop marking is unmistakable. It lives in the most turbulent, highest-oxygen part of the reef, where waves break over rock, and that habitat is the reason it is so demanding in captivity. It needs 700 litres or more at 24-26C, salinity 1.024 to 1.026, pH 8.1 to 8.4, with very strong turbulent flow, oxygen saturation and pristine, stable water. Feed dried nori several times daily plus mysis, marine pellets and spirulina; it must not be allowed to go hungry. It is exceptionally prone to marine ich and to bacterial infections after shipping stress, and a proper quarantine with careful observation is not optional. Honest assessment: this is an expert-only fish with a high failure rate even in well-run systems, and anyone drawn to the look but not yet running a large mature reef would do better with a powder brown or a kole tang.

• How active is a Achilles Tang?

  Very high. A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Achilles Tang need?

  Demanding tank care. Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• What tank size does a Achilles Tang need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Is a Achilles Tang a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Achilles Tang live?

  10–20 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Achilles Tang?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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