Mimic Tang

Scientific Name: Acanthurus Pyroferus (Mimic Tang / Chocolate Tang) Care Level: Easy Temperament: Semi-aggressive Reef Compatible: Yes Diet: Herbivore Max. Size: 20 cm Origin: Indo-Pacific Minimum Tank Size: 500 litres Overview The Acanthurus Pyroferus, commonly known as the Mimic Tang or Chocolate Tang, is a beautiful species of surgeonfish that undergoes a colour transformation as it matures. Juveniles are bright yellow, while adults darken, developing black dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, with a yellow-trimmed caudal fin. A 500-litre or larger aquarium is recommended for this tang to provide enough swimming space and plenty of rockwork for grazing and hiding. Acanthurus Tangs are known for their "scalpel" at the base of the tail, used for defence. Handle with care, as this sharp spine can cause injury. They are considered reef-safe but might occasionally pick at small, mobile, or sessile invertebrates if underfed. A varied diet of marine algae and meaty foods is essential to keep them healthy. Mimic Tangs can exhibit aggression towards similarly shaped tangs, so care should be taken when introducing them to an aquarium with other tang species.