Care
The Black-barred Tang is known from the inshore reef flats of Mauritius, Reunion, Madagascar, and the Comoro Islands. Here they occur singly or in large aggregations, feeding on filamentous algae growing from the reef structures. Although apparently rather abundant in its natural habitat, this highly sought-after fish is rarely seen in the trade, and as such, tends to command a very high price tag when it is available. These striking fish sport 12 dark vertical bars on the silvery body (4 on the head, 6 on the flanks beneath the dorsal fin - which are notably broader dorsally than ventrally, and 2 on the caudal peduncle) along with several dark spots or blotches on the anterior ventral region, and a sharp spine on the caudal peduncle. This semi-aggressive, active species attains a good size and can be rather territorial, so a spacious aquarium is therefore required. It is usually best to keep only one per tank, unless the system is vast and there is an abundance of visual barriers. If you wish to keep other tangs in the same tank, it is best to opt for Ctenochaetus, Naso, or Zebrasoma species - added simultaneously - as these will be best tolerated by the Black-barred Tang, rather than other fish from the same genus (Acanthurus). However, personalities do vary between individuals, so observe your fish very carefully to ensure that there are no problems. Generally speaking, this fish is safe in reef aquaria, although occasional specimens have been known to nip at LPS corals if underfed. The Black-barred Tang will actively browse on filamentous algae growing on the decor, so a mature tank is essential for its wellbeing. Arrange the live rock to create a sloping reef, with plenty of boltholes for the fish, Be sure to leave a large open swimming area along the front of the aquarium. Vigorous filtration and circulation is a must for this energetic, voracious eater. Take care when handling, as the caudal spines can inflict a painful wound. May also be seen on sale as the Zebra Tang. Similar in appearance to the Convict Tang (A. triostegus). Recommended for experienced aquarists only.
Feeding
Feed a varied diet, consisting mainly of vegetable matter, in small amounts 3 times per day. Although this species will browse on algae within the aquarium, its diet must be supplemented with frozen herbivore rations, green marine flake, Spirulina (blue-green algae), Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, cucumber, lettuce, broccoli, Nori (dried seaweed) etc. It will also take small meaty frozen foods as an occasional treat. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, spawning takes place at dusk, in large aggregations. There is a lunar periodicity to the spawning, mostly occurring in the period from 12 days before to 2 days after a full moon. The pelagic eggs are spherical and average just 0.68mm in diameter. Hatching occurs after 26 hours and feeding commences around 5-6 days later, the young remaining in a larval state for some 2.5 months. Juveniles averaging about 25mm in length (and which are orbicular, scaleless, and transparent - except for a light silvery sheen) seek out the shelter of shallow tide pools and reef flats.
