Yellow Tang (Captive Bred) – Zebrasoma flavescens

The Yellow Tang (Captive Bred) is a vibrant, bright-yellow surgeonfish prized for its striking coloration, active swimming behavior, and algae-grazing abilities. Captive-bred specimens are hardier, more disease-resistant, and sustainably sourced, making them an excellent choice for reef aquariums and environmentally conscious hobbyists.

Description:

Common Name: Yellow Tang (Captive Bred)

Scientific Name: Zebrasoma flavescens

Family: Acanthuridae

Size: 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Difficulty: Moderate

Reef Safe: Yes

Native Region:

Wild Yellow Tangs are native to the reefs of the Pacific Ocean, especially around Hawaii. Captive-bred individuals are produced in controlled aquaculture environments, helping to reduce pressure on wild populations.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons

Temperature: 74-80F (23-27C)

pH: 8.0-8.4

Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Substrate: Live rock for grazing and swimming space; aquascape should allow open areas and hiding spots.

Additional Tips:

Algae Control: Excellent natural grazer; helps keep nuisance algae in check.

Compatibility: May show aggression toward other tangs or similar-shaped fish; best kept singly or in very large tanks with varied tank mates.

Diet: Herbivorous; provide a diet rich in marine-based algae, seaweed sheets, spirulina, and high-quality herbivore pellets.

Captive-Bred Benefits: Generally more adaptable and less prone to disease than wild-caught counterparts.