Brown tang
Zebrasoma scopas
Family : Acanthuridae
The brown tang is a modest-sized surgeonfish with an olive-brown body, lighter horizontal lines, and a yellow caudal fin.
Description
This fish reaches about 20 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, with a tall dorsal fin but less spectacular than that of Z. desjardinii. Coloration is olive-brown with light horizontal lines on the flanks. The caudal fin is bright yellow. Juveniles are more yellow with dark spots. It has a caudal spine. It is a herbivorous algae grazer. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards conspecifics. It is one of the easiest surgeonfish to keep.
Habitat
Region :
Coral reefs, shallow lagoons
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. It readily accepts prepared foods. It is hardy and less prone to diseases than other surgeonfish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. It can coexist with other peaceful fish, but avoid multiple males in a small volume. Captive breeding is rare.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
