Yellowfin Tang

Yellowfin Tang (Acanthurus xanthopterus) 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 impressive species displays a blue-gray to purple body with distinctive bright yellow pectoral fins that give it its common name, creating a striking contrast, plus the characteristic sharp spine (scalpel) at the base of the tail. The vibrant yellow fins against the subdued body coloration make it easily recognizable and one of the more attractively marked large tangs available. It can reach about 28 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 250 gallons or more due to their massive adult size and active swimming nature, with plenty of open water column space, strong water flow, excellent water quality, and consideration for their territorial behavior toward other tangs, especially as they mature and require substantial territory. 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 support their substantial size, maintain their vibrant yellow fin coloration, and fuel their active grazing behavior.

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.