Blue Hepatus Tang (Linnaeus, 1766)

 Scientific Name  Paracanthurus hepatus
 Diet  Herbivore; algae, brine shrimp
 Alt Common Name  Palette, Pacific Blue, Flagtail, Wedgetail Blue, Blue Surgeonfish, Nanyôhagi (Jap. 'south sea surgeonfish'), Montador (Creole)
 Family  Acanthuridae
 Origin  Indian and Pacific Ocean
 Aquarist Level  Beginner
 Reef Safe  Yes
 Coloration  Blue with Black swoosh mark on body and Yellow tail
 Disposition  Peaceful except with other tangs of the same genus or coloration.
 Hardiness  Hardy
 Compatibility  Peaceful with other species.  Aggressive towards own species. 
 Mature Size  10 inches
 Sexual Dimorphism  Not visible.

Recommended Supplements

Notes: Tangs, also known as Surgeonfish, are ideal fish for the fish only or reef aquarium.  Generally it is best to keep one tang per aquarium.  If attempting to keep more a 75 gallon aquarium or larger aquarium is recommended as well as introducing tangs from different genus at the same time.