Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens)

Description:
The Yellow Tang is one of the most iconic and recognizable fish in the marine aquarium hobby, known for its vibrant, solid yellow coloration. Native to the reefs of the Hawaiian Islands and other parts of the Indo-Pacific, the Yellow Tang is often referred to as the Golden Surgeonfish due to its distinct bright yellow body and the sharp tail spines (or "scalpels") that it uses for self-defense.
This species has an elongated, oval-shaped body typical of tangs, and it can grow to about 8 inches (20 cm) in length. Their coloration can range from bright canary yellow to a more golden yellow depending on their environment, age, and individual variation.
Yellow Tangs are popular not only because of their beauty but also because they are generally peaceful and easy to care for compared to some other tang species. Their bright color and lively behavior make them an attractive addition to reef tanks.
Care:
Tank Size: While Yellow Tangs are small compared to some other tang species, they still require adequate space due to their active swimming nature. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Yellow Tang. In a larger tank (100 gallons or more), they will have more space to roam and be less territorial, which is ideal for their health and behavior.
Water Conditions: Yellow Tangs are hardy but thrive in stable water conditions. The ideal water parameters are:
Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Less than 10 ppm
Regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks) and good filtration are essential to maintain water quality and ensure the health of the Yellow Tang.
Diet: Yellow Tangs are herbivores, meaning their diet should be primarily plant-based. In the wild, they graze on algae found on the reef. In an aquarium, it is essential to provide a varied diet consisting of:
Algae sheets (nori, spirulina)
Marine algae (like chaetomorpha or gracilaria)
Vegetable-based pellets or flakes
Fresh vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, zucchini, or broccoli
Offering a mix of high-quality algae sheets, frozen foods like mysis shrimp or brine shrimp, and pellets will ensure that the Yellow Tang receives a balanced and nutritious diet. They also help control algae growth in the tank, making them a valuable addition to a reef aquarium.
Tank Setup: Yellow Tangs require a reef-like environment with plenty of live rock for grazing, hiding, and establishing territories. They prefer a sandy substrate, which provides a natural habitat and a place for them to rest. Adequate water flow is important for mimicking their natural reef environment and ensuring good oxygenation.
Since they are grazers, it's beneficial to allow some natural algae growth on the rockwork and substrate, which they will happily graze on. Regularly providing algae sheets will ensure they get the nutrition they need.
Social Behavior: Yellow Tangs are generally peaceful, but they can be territorial, particularly if the tank is too small or if there are other tangs or similarly shaped fish. They are best kept with other peaceful fish that are not overly aggressive or territorial.
It’s best to keep them alone or with one other tang species, as multiple tangs of similar size in a small tank may lead to aggression. However, they can do well with other species of fish, such as clownfish, wrasses, and gobies, if the tank is large enough to provide each fish with space.
Companions: They are compatible with a variety of peaceful fish, including:
Clownfish
Wrasses
Blennies
Gobies
Anthias
Other peaceful reef fish
Avoid housing them with overly aggressive fish or other tangs (unless the tank is very large) to prevent territorial disputes.
Maintenance: Like all tangs, Yellow Tangs require regular maintenance to ensure they stay healthy. This includes:
Performing regular water changes to maintain water quality
Using a protein skimmer for removing excess organics
Monitoring nitrate levels to keep them as low as possible
Providing a high-quality filtration system
Additional Considerations:
Size and Space: As they grow to about 8 inches, Yellow Tangs need room to swim and graze. Overcrowding or a cramped tank can cause stress and lead to health problems. Ensure the tank is large enough (75 gallons minimum) and has plenty of open swimming space.
Aggression with Other Tangs: Yellow Tangs can be aggressive towards other tangs or surgeonfish, especially those of similar size or body shape. If you plan to keep more than one tang in a tank, make sure it’s large enough (preferably 100 gallons or more), and provide enough hiding spots and territories to reduce aggression.
Health Concerns: Like other tang species, Yellow Tangs are prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon irritans) and other parasitic diseases, particularly if the water quality is poor or they are stressed. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of disease. Regularly checking for signs of illness and maintaining good water quality will help prevent many common health issues.