Blue Tang

Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe as it poses no threat to corals or most invertebrates, focusing primarily on algae grazing. This iconic species displays a brilliant royal blue body with distinctive black curved markings that create a palette-like pattern, yellow tail, and the characteristic sharp spine (scalpel) at the base of the tail. Made famous by the character "Dory," this species combines stunning coloration with active, entertaining behavior that makes it one of the most popular tangs in the aquarium trade. It can reach about 12 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 125 gallons or more due to their active swimming nature and territorial behavior toward other tangs, with plenty of live rock for grazing, strong water flow, excellent water quality, and consideration for their susceptibility to ich and other parasites, requiring pristine water conditions and careful quarantine protocols. Its diet should include a mix of marine algae—nori sheets, spirulina, dried seaweed, algae pellets—as well as high-quality herbivore foods and occasional meaty supplements like mysis shrimp, as this primarily herbivorous species requires constant access to plant matter and benefits from varied nutrition to maintain their vibrant blue coloration and overall health.

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.