Yellow Belly Hippo Tang

Paracanthurus hepatus var.

Blue Tangs are best cared for in aquariums at least 6′ in length by experienced marine (saltwater) aquarists. If you’re a beginner, we recommend a similar-looking fish such as the Marine (Saltwater) Yellowtail Damselfish or Freshwater Boesemani Rainbow.

The Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang is a gorgeous color variety of the popular Blue Tang. Though it shares the attractive coloration of the Blue Tang, the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang boasts a richer, deep-blue coloration and a brilliant yellow coloration that covers a greater portion of the body. The yellow coloration, most prominent on the caudal fin (tail), continues across the belly region, giving the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang an exciting boost in color. Small Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tangs will not exhibit the yellow belly coloration until they mature. Combined with the signature bold black markings resembling a painter’s palette, the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang is sure to be an impressive addition to reef or fish-only aquariums.

Native to reefs in the Indian Ocean, the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang appreciates good hiding locations amongst live rock. However, this active fish also loves to swim. Therefore, ample room to roam around your aquarium is essential for optimum health. Though peaceful towards most tankmates, the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang will demonstrate aggressive behavior towards other fish of its own species. To keep multiple specimens, introduce the entire lot at once into a larger marine system.

Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine-based algae or seaweed. This diet will help strengthen the Blue and Yellow Hippo Tang’s immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health. Offer dried seaweed tied to a rock