Care
The Orange Shoulder Tang is known from seaward reefs over areas of bare rock, mixed rubble, and sand, to a depth of 46m (151ft). Juvenile fish, which have an all-over bright yellow body colouration with just the slightest hint of blue edging the anal and dorsal fins, inhabit the safer waters of protected bays and lagoons. Adults are a two tone grey colour with a bright orange flash ringed in blue across the 'shoulders', just above the pectoral fins. The caudal fin will take on a beautiful lyre shape as the fish mature. Orange Shoulder Tangs occur singly or in shoals, feeding on diatoms, fine filamentous algae, biofilms, and detritus covering the sand and bare rock. This is a large, active species that requires an XXL aquarium with a good deal of swimming space. Although this fish can attain quite a size, it is not as belligerent as some members of the genus, and will typically ignore tankmates, including other tangs that are of similar disposition. It is usually best to keep only one Orange Shoulder Tang per tank, unless the system is vast and there are an abundance of visual barriers. If conditions are suitable for housing more than one, it is always best to add a juvenile to the aquarium that contains an adult, and not the other way around. If placing with other tangs (except
A. nigricans and
A. triostegus, which are less aggressive) add this species first. Generally speaking, this fish is safe in reef aquaria (provided that it is well fed), but do observe carefully. It will actively browse on filamentous algae growing on the décor, so a mature tank is essential. Arrange the live rock to create a sloping reef, with plenty of boltholes for the fish (should they feel the need to dash for cover at any time), also being sure to leave a large open swimming area and a wide expanse of sand for grazing. 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. The Orange Shoulder Tang is replaced by the Vampire Tang (
A. tennenti) in the Indian Ocean. Also known as the Orangeband Tang or the Orange-Epaulette Tang.
Feeding
Feed a varied diet for omnivores, with a large vegetable component, 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 meaty frozen foods, but be sure that it is receiving enough green food to help prevent HLLE. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in captivity.
