Powder Brown Tang

Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus japonicus) 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 handsome species displays a rich chocolate brown to tan body with subtle lighter markings and distinctive blue accents around the fins and face, plus the characteristic sharp spine (scalpel) at the base of the tail. The warm brown coloration with blue highlights creates an elegant, understated beauty that makes it a sophisticated choice for aquarists seeking something different from the typical bright-colored tangs. It can reach about 8 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 75 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 generally hardy nature that makes them suitable for aquarists seeking a reliable tang with unique coloration. 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 rich brown coloration with blue accents 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.