Quick Stats
Moderate |
Temperament
Semi-aggressive |
Color Form
Gray to brown with a distinctive yellow dorsal fin and a small dark ‘eye spot’ on the gill cover |
Diet
Herbivore |
Reef Compatible
Yes |
72-78°F, sg 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12 |
Max. Size
10 inches |
Family
Acanthuridae |
Minimum Tank Size
125 gallons |
|
Description
The Epaulette Tang, also known as the Eye Line Tang, is a robust, attractive tang species often noted for the small dark marking resembling an “eye spot” near its gill cover and the yellow streak along the dorsal fin. These fish can grow to around 10 inches and display beautiful color transitions from gray to light brown.
This tang requires a large tank with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing. It is an herbivorous species that will actively eat algae, helping to keep the tank clean. Their semi-aggressive temperament means they may become territorial, especially toward other tangs, so tank mates should be chosen carefully.
The Epaulette Tang is reef safe and a valuable addition to larger reef setups, as it won’t disturb corals or invertebrates. It thrives on a varied herbivorous diet, including marine-based seaweed, spirulina, and high-quality herbivore flakes or pellets.