Care
The Caribbean Blue Tang isknown from coral reefs and inshore rocky areas with seagrass, at depths of upto 40 metres (131 ft). This distinctively coloured surgeonfish is diurnal bynature and often forms groups as it browses for food. Juvenile fish sport ayellow body colour with a blue ring around the eye and blue fringes to the boththe dorsal and anal fin; adult fish become deeper-bodied and are an all-overbeautiful shade of blue, the intensity of the blue varying depending on theindividual"™s mood. Some young adults may also have a yellow caudal fin (or partialyellow caudal fin). These fish also possess subtle, thin transverse bandsacross the fins and body - incredibly attractive when the fish is viewed atcertain angles and when it is flaring its fins wide. Interestingly, thejuveniles of this species have been observed forming cleaning stations in thewild, grazing algae, parasites, and molted skin from the Green Turtle (
Chelonia mydas). The Caribbean Blue Tangis suitable for large, mature reef aquaria only. It is essential that thesystem is well-established so that there is an abundance of algae growth on thelive rock, upon which the fish can constantly graze. If the tank is too small,this natural food source will deplete too quickly, plus this normallyeasy-going fish may become belligerent in cramped quarters. Unless you arefortunate to own an aquarium of immense proportions, it is best to keep onlyone per tank and not with any other tangs. If an outsize tank is available,small groups (7+) could be kept together if added simultaneously, and asjuveniles of the same size/age. Avoid any tankmates that would be seen as directfood competitors. These agile tangs require ample swimming space, along withplenty of hiding places amongst the reef structure where they can retreat intoif necessary. This species would make a fabulous addition to a large Caribbean biotope aquarium. May also be seen on sale as the Atlantic Blue Tang.
Feeding
Offer 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 mustbe supplemented with frozen herbivore rations, green marine flake, Spirulina(blue-green algae), Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, cucumber, lettuce, Nori(dried seaweed) etc. It will also take small meaty frozen foods, but be surethat it is receiving enough green food for best long-term health. Adding aspecially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.Underfed specimens may try and nip at LPS corals.
Breeding
This species is unlikely tobreed in the home aquarium.
