Powder Brown Tang - Acanthurus Japonicus

Care Level Moderate

Temperament Semi-aggressive

Color Form Red, Tan, Yellow

Diet Herbivore

Reef Compatible Yes

Water Conditions sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size 8"

Family Acanthuridae

Minimum Tank Size 125 gallons

The Powder Brown Tang, also known as the Powder Brown Surgeonfish, Japan Surgeonfish, and White-faced Surgeonfish, has a brown body with a white mark on the cheek between the mouth and eyes. The pectoral, anal, and dorsal fins are dark brown with light blue highlights at the tip. The dorsal fin also has an orange stripe present. The tail is blue with a yellow vertical bar. Yellow striping runs along the body, against the anal and dorsal fins, forming a wishbone-shaped marking.

A 125 gallon or larger aquarium is necessary to provide plenty of swimming room. Keep only one Powder Brown Tang per tank. Use caution when housing with other Tangs or Surgeonfish. Similar shaped Tangs can be very aggressive towards each other.

Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health. Offer dried seaweed tied to a rock or use a veggie clip, and feed at least 3 times per week. Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad and Ocean Nutrition are all ideal products and are very easy to use.