Vlamingii Tang

Vlamingii Tang
Also known as Bignose Unicornfish, Scribbled Unicornfish, Zebra Unicornfish, or Vlaming’s Unicornfish (Naso vlamingii).
The Vlamingii Tang is a large, bold tang known for its striking contrast of dark and pale body coloration, vibrant blue markings on the fins, and impressive size. Native to the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and Indonesia, this species is active, semi-aggressive, and highly territorial, making it suitable for experienced aquarists. Its dynamic presence and constant grazing behavior make it a visually dominant and highly functional algae-eating tang in large reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Naso vlamingii
• Common Names: Common Names: Bignose Unicornfish, Scribbled Unicornfish, Zebra Unicornfish, Vlaming’s Unicornfish 
• Adult Size: 24 inches (60 cm)
• Lifespan: 12–15+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial toward other tangs
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe 
• Minimum Tank Size: 360 gallons 
• Experience Level: Advanced 

Habitat & Tank Requirements
Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the Red Sea and East Africa. They thrive in areas with moderate to strong currents and abundant algae for grazing.

Tank Environment:

• Large, open swimming areas
• Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
• Stable water parameters with high oxygen levels
• UV sterilizer recommended to reduce parasite exposure

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Oversized protein skimmer
• Strong circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (15–20% weekly)

Diet & Feeding
Vlamingii Tangs are primarily herbivorous and graze continuously on algae. A varied diet is essential to maintain health, coloration, and overall vigor.

Recommended Foods:

• Nori sheets (green, red, brown)
• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety
• Vitamin-enriched foods for immune support

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 2–3 times daily
• Provide continuous access to algae or nori
• Rotate food types to ensure balanced nutrition

Behavior & Compatibility
Vlamingii Tangs are active and can be territorial toward other tangs, especially in smaller tanks. They are best kept singly or in very large aquariums where territorial disputes are minimized.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful, robust community fish, wrasses, gobies, blennies, anthias
• Caution with: other tangs and semi-aggressive species in confined spaces
• Avoid: overcrowding of Acanthurus tangs

Color & Development
Vlamingii Tangs have a dark to light gradient body, striking electric blue fin edging, and pale yellow or white accents. Juveniles often have darker coloration, which lightens and develops vivid fin markings as they mature.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 4–6 inches and grow steadily to 15–18 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips
Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 45–60 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide immediate access to algae and hiding areas
• Avoid adding to new or unstable tanks

Health Considerations:
Vlamingii Tangs can be prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon), marine velvet (Amyloodinium), and HLLE if diet or water quality is inadequate.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Active swimming and constant grazing
• Clear eyes and smooth fins
• Strong appetite and vibrant coloration
• No flashing or labored breathing

Special Considerations
Quarantine is Recommended:
Quarantined Vlamingii Tangs have higher survival rates, are conditioned to prepared foods, and are free from parasites. Dr Reef’s quarantine protocol ensures each fish is:

• Observed and treated preventatively
• Conditioned to aquarium diet
• Stabilized before shipment

Breeding Potential
Breeding Vlamingii Tangs in captivity is extremely rare due to their large size, territorial nature, and schooling behaviors. Most spawning occurs only in extensive, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Vlamingii Tang?
Quarantined Vlamingii Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt efficiently to aquarium life. Their health, coloration, and natural grazing behavior are ensured, making them an impressive and functional centerpiece tang for advanced reef aquariums.