Sohal tang

Acanthurus sohal

Family : Acanthuridae

FishMarinesurgeonfish

A large surgeonfish with a gray-blue body and dark vertical bands. Very aggressive, for experienced aquarists only.

Sohal tang — photo 1 sur 4
Stan Shebs · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4
Popularity
Advanced marine fish
large tank + demanding parameters
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Mediterranean
Bassin méditerranéen et mer Rouge.

Description

The sohal tang can reach 40 cm. Its body is gray-blue with dark vertical bands and an orange spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Its caudal fin is crescent-shaped. It has a very developed caudal spine. It is one of the most aggressive surgeonfish, dominating the entire aquarium. It needs a very large volume and powerful filtration. In the wild, it lives in harems with a dominant male.

Habitat

Region :

The sohal tang inhabits coral reefs exposed to current, often in surge zones. It is highly territorial and vigorously defends its territory. It is found from 1 to 30 m depth.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH8.18.4
Salinity1.0231.025
NO₃
≤ 5 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.05 mg/L
Calcium
≥ 400 ppm
Magnesium
≥ 1250 ppm

Care

Difficulty
5/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
500 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
40 cm
Lifespan
15 years
Temperament
Aggressive
Propagation

Care notes

Aquarium of at least 500 L, ideally 800 L or more. Stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Very aggressive, do not keep with other surgeonfish or shy fish. A powerful protein skimmer is essential. Water changes must be frequent. Keep nitrates and phosphates very low.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References