African Blue Tang Saltwater Fish

African Blue Tang (Paracanthurus Hepatus)

$136.49

The African Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is an iconic, vibrant marine fish renowned for its deep blue body, distinctive black markings, and bright yellow tail. As an active and energetic swimmer, it creates an eye-catching focal point in spacious marine aquarium setups.

This herbivorous surgeonfish thrives in reef environments, helping naturally control nuisance algae without harming corals. While peaceful toward most dissimilar tankmates, it benefits from pristine water quality, ample swimming room, and a diet rich in marine seaweed.

Key Features

Scientific Name	Paracanthurus hepatus
Common Name	African Blue Tang
Other Common Names	Blue Tang, Palette Surgeonfish, Dory
Origin	Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
Max Size	25-30 cm
Temperament	Semi-Aggressive / Active
Diet	Herbivore (Primarily algae and seaweed)
Minimum Tank Size	681 L
Reef Compatibility	Reef Safe (Excellent for algae control)

Highlights

Scientific Name: Paracanthurus hepatus
Primary Common Name: African Blue Tang
Other Common Names: Blue Tang, Palette Surgeonfish, Dory
Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
Max Size: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Active
Diet: Herbivore (Primarily algae and seaweed)
Minimum Tank Size: 180+ Gallons
Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe (Excellent for algae control)

Materials & care

Diet: As a surgeonfish, this fish is primarily an herbivore that grazes continuously on algae in the wild. A captive diet must be rich in vegetable matter, including dried seaweed (nori) and high-quality vegetable flakes or pellets. While they will accept meaty foods like brine shrimp, these should be offered sparingly as supplements only.
Feeding: Offer dried marine seaweed (nori) attached to a clip in the aquarium multiple times per week. The majority of the diet should be plant-based to support digestive health and boost the immune system against common diseases.
Reef Compatibility: It is considered reef safe. The African Blue Tang is an excellent addition to a reef tank, where its constant grazing helps control nuisance algae growth without harming corals. Caution should be exercised with very small or delicate sessile invertebrates, but overall they are a suitable reef resident.
Temperament: It is semi-aggressive and active. While peaceful towards other fish species, it can be aggressive toward its own kind or other blue-colored tangs. If housing a group, it is best to introduce a few small juveniles simultaneously into a very large tank to help distribute aggression.
Special Care: This species is highly susceptible to Marine Ich and other parasitic infections, especially when stressed. Maintaining pristine water quality, a stable temperature, and a diet rich in vitamins is critical for long-term health.

Compatibility

Generally peaceful toward most marine tankmates and reef-safe with corals. Can display territorial behavior toward other tangs or similarly shaped and colored fish.

Frequently asked questions

What is the recommended diet for an African Blue Tang?

They are primarily herbivores requiring a diet rich in vegetable matter, such as dried marine seaweed (nori) and high-quality vegetable pellets or flakes, with meaty foods offered only as occasional supplements.

Is the African Blue Tang safe for reef aquariums?

Yes, it is reef safe and serves as an effective natural grazer to control nuisance algae without damaging corals.

What minimum aquarium size is required?

A minimum tank size of approximately 681 liters (180+ gallons) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming behavior and adult size.

How should aggression be managed with other tangs?

They can be territorial toward their own kind or similarly colored fish; if housing multiple tangs, introduce juveniles simultaneously in a very large aquarium.

Important Fulfillment Information

Fish and corals ship Monday through Thursday. Not all fish are sexed. If so it will specify.

Once your order ships, you will receive an email with your tracking number. Refunds are always issued for any fish not shipped.

PlantedPlus operates as a collective of trusted freshwater and saltwater importers. This policy allows us to prioritize animal welfare while maintaining reliable service for our hobbyists.

Shipping Cost Disclosure

To help keep ordering live fish online affordable, Planted Plus subsidizes a portion of shipping costs. Because these costs are incurred regardless of order completion, shipping charges are non-refundable.