Half Black Mimic Tang Marine Fish

Half Black Mimic Tang (Acanthurus Chronixis)

$65.09

The Half Black Mimic Tang (Acanthurus chronixis), also known as the Chronixis Surgeonfish, is a rare and striking marine herbivore celebrated for its juvenile mimicry of the Half Black Angelfish. As it matures into a distinctive mix of tan, brown, and black coloration, it reaches an adult length of 20 to 25 cm.

This active grazer is reef-safe and serves as an exceptional natural solution for controlling filamentous and microalgae on live rock. Peaceful toward most non-tang community tank mates, it thrives best in an established aquarium of at least 454 L with ample open swimming room and structured rockwork.

Key Features

Scientific Name	Acanthurus chronixis
Common Name	Half Black Mimic Tang
Other Common Names	Chronixis Surgeonfish
Origin	Western Pacific (Primarily Kapingamarangi Atoll, Caroline Islands)
Max Size	20–25 cm
Minimum Tank Size	454 L
Diet	Herbivore (Must include marine algae/nori)
Temperament	Semi-Aggressive (Targeting other tangs)
Reef Safe	Yes
Water Type	Marine / Saltwater

Highlights

Scientific Name: Acanthurus chronixis
Primary Common Name: Half Black Mimic Tang
Other Common Names: Chronixis Surgeonfish
Origin: Western Pacific (Primarily Kapingamarangi Atoll, Caroline Islands)
Max Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive (Targeting other tangs)
Diet: Herbivore (Must include marine algae/nori)
Minimum Tank Size: 120+ Gallons
Reef Compatibility: Yes

Materials & care

Diet: This fish is a primary herbivore (algae-eater). Its diet must consist mainly of marine-based vegetable matter, including dried seaweed (nori) offered multiple times per week using a veggie clip. This is crucial for its health and immune system. Supplement the diet with high-quality herbivore pellets and flakes, along with occasional meaty foods like mysis shrimp.
Algae Control: The Half Black Mimic Tang is an effective natural algae grazer and will spend its days picking filamentous and microalgae from live rock and glass.
Reef Compatibility: It is generally considered reef safe. It will not bother corals or most ornamental invertebrates, focusing its grazing efforts on nuisance algae.
Temperament: It is peaceful toward most non-tang fish, but can be territorial or semi-aggressive toward other tangs and surgeonfish. It should be the only fish of its species unless introduced as a mated pair in a very large system. Provide plenty of live rock and caves to establish territories and break up sight lines.

Compatibility

Peaceful toward most non-tang fish and reef-safe with corals and invertebrates. It can exhibit territorial aggression toward other tangs and surgeonfish, so it should generally be kept as the only tang in the system unless housed in a very large aquarium with abundant live rock.

Frequently asked questions

What is the recommended tank size for the Half Black Mimic Tang?

A minimum aquarium volume of 454 L (120 gallons) is required to provide adequate swimming space and grazing area.

Is the Half Black Mimic Tang reef safe?

Yes, it is reef safe and will not harm corals or ornamental invertebrates, actively grazing on nuisance algae instead.

What should the Half Black Mimic Tang be fed?

Its primary diet must consist of marine algae and dried seaweed (nori) supplemented with high-quality herbivore pellets, flakes, and occasional meaty foods.

How large does the Half Black Mimic Tang grow?

Adult specimens typically reach a maximum size of 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inches).

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.