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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Acanthuridae (Tangs/Surgeonfishes)
Natural Range: Indian and Pacific Oceans
Depth: 3 to 164 ft. Size: 21 in. Jumps: No Space: 150+ gal.
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Zooplankton, algae, detritus, feces
Natural History: Vlamingii tangs are found in loose schools in open water on deep lagoons and outer reef zones feeding on zooplankton. They have also been observed feeding on the feces of fish they shadow. Their caudal spine is reported to be very sharp. This species is reported to be able to either show or hide its blue markings.
Husbandry: The spine of the Vlamingi Tang is capable of delivering an deep gash in the unsuspecting hand. They get quite large and require large swimming spaces. They should be fed a varied diet for best success. This tang species is peaceful and can coexist with a wide variety of peaceful and agressive species. Only another Vlamingi Tang would pose a territoriality problem in captivity.
AKA: Bignose Unicornfish, Vlamingi's Unicornfish