Description
Lavender Tang – Acanthurus nigrofuscus
Overview:
The Lavender Tang is a graceful and active surgeonfish with a subtle yet attractive lavender-brown body accented by fine horizontal markings. Known for its constant grazing, it plays an important role in keeping algae growth under control in marine aquariums.
Origin:
Widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Hawaii, where it inhabits coral reefs and lagoons.
Feeding:
Primarily herbivorous, grazing on filamentous algae. Provide a diet rich in nori, spirulina, and algae-based flakes or pellets, with occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety and balanced nutrition.
Tank Mates:
Compatible with most peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. May show aggression toward other tangs, especially those of similar body shape, unless housed in a large aquarium.
Aggression:
Semi-aggressive – generally peaceful but can become territorial with other surgeonfish if space is limited.
Experience Level:
Intermediate aquarists – requires a mature aquarium with strong water movement, ample swimming room, and a steady supply of algae.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.020–1.025
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Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons
The Lavender Tang is a hardy, algae-grazing surgeonfish that makes an elegant and functional addition to large reef or fish-only aquariums.
