Achilles Tang

Achilles Tang (Acanthurus achilles) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe as it poses no threat to corals or invertebrates, focusing primarily on algae grazing. This striking species displays a deep black body with brilliant orange highlights on the tail peduncle and dorsal fin, plus a distinctive white teardrop marking behind the gill cover that creates one of the most recognizable and coveted color patterns among surgeonfish. The contrast between the velvety black body and vibrant orange accents makes this tang a true showstopper. It can reach about 10 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 125 gallons or more with excellent water quality, strong water flow, plenty of live rock for grazing, stable water parameters, and understanding that this species can be territorial with other tangs and requires pristine conditions to thrive. Its diet should include a mix of marine algae—nori sheets, spirulina, marine macroalgae—as well as high-quality herbivore pellets and occasional meaty foods like mysis shrimp, as this primarily herbivorous species requires consistent algae-based nutrition and benefits from multiple small feedings throughout the day.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.