The Unique Characteristics Of The Blue Tang
The Blue Tang is a species of fish that is native to the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is readily identifiable by its bright, deep blue coloration and unique, flattened body shape. With its vibrant color and the ability to survive in shallow beach waters, the Blue Tang has become an increasingly popular fish for home aquariums, and even featured prominently in the film Finding Nemo.
An Overview Of The Blue Tang
The scientific name for the Blue Tang is Paracanthurus hepatus. It is a member of the surgeonfish family, which is characterized by the razor-sharp spines just behind their gill covers. These spines are used to defend against predators and other potential threats to their survival.
The Blue Tang typically grows to around 10-12 inches in length, although it is not uncommon to find specimens measuring up to 15 inches in the wild. It has a flat, diamond-shaped body that is predominantly blue in color, with a lighter blue almost bisecting its middle. Additionally, its fin edges and caudal fin are often lined with a deep yellow to orange color.
Where The Blue Tang Live
The Blue Tang can be found inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, ranging from Madagascar to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. They feed primarily on algae and other small invertebrates, but have also been known to graze on small pieces of shellfish.
The Blue Tang will often be found in large schools of several hundred individuals, although they also enjoy secluded nooks and crevices for solitary grazing. They prefer living amongst the shallow beach waters, so you can easily spot large groups of them along shorelines.
Breeding Habits Of The Blue Tang
The Blue Tang is an oviparous species, meaning they reproduce by laying eggs. The eggs are typically scattered upon the surface of the water and fertilized externally by the males. The eggs are covered in a sticky covering, which allows them to attach to any surface they come in contact with.
Once hatched, the young Blue Tang are quite vulnerable to predators and will hide amongst the corals and rocks of the ocean floor. As they grow, they are able to distinguish between coral and rock, allowing them to find shelter amidst the seafloor.
Adapting To An Aquarium Environment
While the Blue Tang does great in the wild, it can be somewhat difficult to adapt to an aquarium environment. Its diet should consist of algae-based foods, such as spirulina flakes, algae pellets, and freeze-dried zooplankton. It is also important to provide plenty of hiding places, as these fish are used to having plenty of space to avoid potential threats or predators.
It is important to remember that the Blue Tang requires an exceptionally large tank to stay healthy and lively. They will require well-aerated, unfiltered water with a pH between 8.1 and 8.4 and should be exposed to around 10-12 hours of light every day.
Conclusion
The Blue Tang is a truly unique fish, not just in its bright coloration, but also its behavior. In the wild, they can be found in large schools of hundreds of individuals and will often inhabit shallow waters just off shore.
Adapting the Blue Tang to an aquarium can be somewhat tricky; its diet should consist mainly of algae-based foods, and it requires a large, well-aerated tank with plenty of hiding places. With proper care, the Blue Tang can make an excellent addition to any home aquarium.