A great Powder Blue Tang!
Origin: Eastern Asia

Size info:
Size M: approx. 2.75 - 3.75"
Size L: approx. 4.5 - 5.5"

There once was a fish called Powder Blue Tang,
With a vibrant hue that could make hearts pang,
It swims in the reef,
Its beauty beyond belief,
Watching it can make us all feel yang.

Fun fact: The Powder Blue Tang is part of the surgeonfish family, and has a sharp, scalpel-like spine at the base of its tail that it can use for protection. It also primarily feeds on a diet of algae and other plant matter.

Keeping Powder Blue Tangs (Acanthurus leucosternon) in an Aquarium

Powder Blue Tangs are a popular saltwater fish, known for their bright blue bodies and striking yellow tails. They are relatively hardy and easy to care for, making them a great addition to any well-maintained saltwater aquarium.

Tank Size and Water Quality

For one adult Powder Blue Tang, a minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended, although a larger tank is always better if space and budget allow. These fish require clean, well-oxygenated water with a consistent temperature between 72-78°F and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.026. It is important to maintain stable water parameters by performing frequent water changes and monitoring levels of ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH.

Diet and Feeding

Powder Blue Tangs are omnivorous and should have a varied diet consisting of both plant and animal matter. Offer a high-quality pellet or flake food formulated specifically for marine herbivores, as well as fresh or frozen algae sheets and small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or brine shrimp. Supplemental vitamins and minerals in the form of a liquid food additive can also benefit the health of these fish.

Behavior and Compatibility

Powder Blue Tangs are generally peaceful but can become territorial and aggressive towards other Tangs or similar-looking fish. They thrive in a reef tank environment with plenty of hiding places and open swimming space. Be sure to avoid mixing them with other similarly-shaped Tangs, as this can lead to aggression and stress. Similarly, do not keep more than one Powder Blue Tang in the same tank, as this can also result in fighting.

Coolest Stuff About Powder Blue Tangs

• They are one of the most vividly-colored fish in the saltwater aquarium hobby.
• These fish are highly active and entertaining to watch as they swim around the tank.
• Powder Blue Tangs are known for their unique foraging behavior – they “hover” in one spot while using their caudal fin to create a small current that brings food particles to them.
• They are also capable of changing color intensity (such as becoming lighter or darker), depending on their mood or surroundings.
• These fish have specialized spines in their fins that they use for defense when threatened.