Description

Round Face Tang – Acanthurus mata

Overview:
The Round Face Tang is a large, sleek surgeonfish known for its oval-shaped head and streamlined body, often displaying a silvery-gray to bluish coloration with faint horizontal striping. Active and strong swimmers, these tangs bring elegance and energy to large marine aquariums.

Origin:
Widespread across the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to the central Pacific, typically inhabiting outer reef slopes and coastal areas.

Feeding:
Primarily herbivorous, grazing on marine algae. For best health, provide a diet rich in nori, spirulina, and algae-based foods, along with occasional mysis shrimp or enriched frozen preparations.

Tank Mates:
Compatible with peaceful to moderately aggressive fish. Should not be housed with other surgeonfish of similar shape or color in smaller tanks to prevent territorial disputes.

Aggression:
Semi-aggressive – may show territorial behavior, especially toward other tangs, but generally peaceful in large, well-structured aquariums.

Experience Level:
Intermediate to advanced aquarists – requires a spacious tank, stable parameters, and a mature setup with plenty of swimming room and grazing surfaces.

Water Parameters:

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.020–1.025
Minimum Tank Size: 180+ gallons

The Round Face Tang is a powerful swimmer and algae grazer that thrives in large marine aquariums, making it a prized choice for advanced hobbyists.