The Black Shoulder Tang is a captivating and rare surgeonfish often found in home aquariums. Their appearance can change significantly with mood and age, ranging from nearly all black to a light tan with striking blue and yellow accents.

These tangs can grow up to 16 inches and require a minimum tank size of 180 gallons. Generally peaceful, they coexist well with most fish, corals, and invertebrates, making them an excellent choice for large reef aquariums.

However, The Black Shoulder Tang can be aggressive towards other tangs, especially those in the Acanthurus family. To minimize aggression, introduce all tangs simultaneously and ensure they have ample algae to graze on. They are strong swimmers and need plenty of open space.

As herbivores, their diet should be rich in greens. Feeding them nori, marine algae sheets, high-quality flake and pellet food, and mysis shrimp will keep them healthy and content.

Contact us anytime for questions about whether The Black Shoulder Tang is the right fit for your aquarium.

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Tank Size: 180 Gallons
• Maximum Size: 16 inches
• Coloration: Tan, Brown, White
• Diet: Herbivore
• Regions Found: Red Sea, Indo-Pacific Ocean, Australia
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Experience Level: Advanced
• Water Conditions: 74-82?F, SG 1.020-1.027, PH 7.9-8.5
• Other Names: Eye-stripe Surgeonfish, Epaulette Surgeonfish, Black-barred Surgeonfish, Epaniette Tang, Blackstreak Surgeonfish

Size Categories: Tiny: Up to 2 inches, Small: Over 2-2.5 inches, Small/Medium: Over 2.5-3.5 inches, Medium: Over 3.5-4.5 inches, Medium/Large: Over 4.5-5.5 inches, Large: Over 5.5-6.5 inches, Extra Large: Over 6.5-7.5 inches, Extra Extra Large: Over 7.5-8.5 inches, Show Size: Over 8.5-10.5 inches, Jumbo: Over 10.5 inches