Purple Tang

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• 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 Purple Tang is native to the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, reaching about 20 cm. Its uniform violet body, fine dark stippling on the face, and bright yellow tail make it one of the most coveted surgeonfish. It is hardy once acclimated but can be quite territorial and pugnacious. House in a 285-litre (75-gallon) or larger reef tank with open swimming space at 24-26C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4. A herbivorous diet of nori, marine algae, and herbivore foods, supplemented with mysis, maintains its rich color and health. It is reef-safe but often aggressive toward other tangs and similarly shaped fish, so add it last and keep only one tang unless the system is very large.

• How active is a Purple Tang?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Purple Tang need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Purple Tang need?

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

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

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Purple Tang live?

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

• What health issues affect the Purple 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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