Blue Hippo Tang

Also known as the Pacific Blue Tang, Regal Tang, Palette Tang, and famously recognized as the “Dory Fish,” the Blue Hippo Tang is one of the most iconic and visually unforgettable reef fish in the world. Its vibrant royal-blue body, jet-black palette markings, and bright yellow tail make it an instant centerpiece in large aquariums. Active, intelligent, and constantly exploring its environment, this species is loved by beginners and advanced aquarists alike—though it does require ample swimming space and stable water conditions. When properly quarantined, conditioned, and cared for, the Blue Hippo Tang becomes a long-lasting, disease-resistant show fish.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Paracanthurus hepatus
Common Names: Blue Hippo Tang, Regal Tang, Palette Surgeonfish, Pacific Blue Tang, “Dory”
Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
Lifespan: 15–20+ years in well-maintained systems
Temperament: Peaceful; may show mild territorial behavior toward new tankmates
Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe, does not nip corals or invertebrates
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons (125 gallons absolute minimum for juveniles)
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced , requires clean water and ample swimming room

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
The Blue Hippo Tang is found across the Indo-Pacific on coral reefs, drop-offs, and surge zones. They inhabit high-energy environments with strong currents and abundant rockwork where they can dart in and out for safety.

Tank Environment:

• Large open water column for constant swimming
• Numerous caves and crevices for sheltering at night
• Strong water movement to mimic natural surge conditions
• Mature live rock with natural algae growth
• Stable parameters and excellent oxygenation

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <15–20 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• High-quality protein skimmer
• Powerful filtration and refugium (optional but beneficial)
• Wave makers for strong, alternating flow
• UV sterilizer recommended for disease control
• Routine water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Blue Hippo Tangs are omnivores, grazing algae throughout the day while also consuming meaty foods. Their diet must be varied and nutrient-rich to prevent health issues such as HLLE (Head and Lateral Line Erosion).

Recommended Foods:

• Nori/seaweed sheets (daily)
• Spirulina-based pellets and flakes
• Frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and plankton
• High-quality herbivore mixes
• Enriched frozen blends (Omega-3, vitamins)
• Garlic-soaked foods for parasite resistance

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 2–3 times per day
• Provide seaweed on clips for continuous grazing
• Rotate foods to maintain color and immunity

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:

• Active, curious, peaceful
• Generally non-aggressive
• May be shy when first introduced
• Known to wedge themselves into rock crevices to sleep

Tank Mates:
Compatible with:

• Clownfish, wrasses, gobies, anthias, blennies
• Angelfish, butterflies, and other peaceful reef fish
• Other tangs of differing shapes (with space)

Caution with:

• Other surgeonfish with similar shape or coloration
  Very aggressive tankmates that may intimidate shy tangs

Avoid:

• Large predatory fish
• Multiple Blue Hippo Tangs unless in very large systems (300+ gallons)

Reef Compatibility:
Completely reef-safe , they ignore corals and invertebrates and contribute to algae control.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 45–60 minutes
• Float for temperature matching
• Introduce with lights dimmed
• Provide hiding spots to reduce early stress

Health Considerations:
Blue Hippo Tangs are notoriously prone to ich and velvet, especially when stressed. This makes quarantine absolutely essential. Dr Reef’s quarantined specimens are treated, conditioned, and monitored carefully to minimize disease risk.

Common health concerns include:

• Marine Ich
• Marine Velvet
• HLLE (prevented with vitamin-rich algae diet)
• Fin tears if tankmates nip

Signs of a Healthy Hippo Tang:

• Clear eyes
• Strong swimming
• Deep blue coloration
• Healthy appetite
• No scratching, spots, or heavy breathing

Color & Development

Coloration Characteristics:

• Brilliant royal-blue body
• Jet-black swirling “palette” pattern
• Bright yellow tail
• Subtle purple hues on face in some specimens

Juvenile Appearance:

• Smaller, more saturated blue
• Sharper black markings
• Increased shyness when young

Adult Development:

• Deepening color
• Body elongates
• Tail becomes more vibrant and defined

Color Enhancement Factors:

• High-quality algae-based diet
• Clean water with low nutrients
• Strong lighting (not required, but helps vibrancy)

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Critical:
Blue Hippo Tangs are more parasite-sensitive than many fish. Dr Reef’s quarantine includes:

• 3–4 week observation
• Prophylactic treatments
• Conditioning to prepared foods
• Parasite screening
• Stress reduction and environmental acclimation

Compatibility Notes:

• Provide plenty of rockwork and hiding spots
• House in large tanks to prevent pacing and stress
• Avoid sudden parameter swings

Breeding Potential

Breeding Blue Hippo Tangs in home aquariums is almost impossible, as they require vast open water for group spawning at dusk. While they may show natural schooling or pairing behaviors, successful captive breeding is extremely rare and limited to specialized commercial facilities.

Why Choose a Quarantined Blue Hippo Tang?

A quarantined specimen from Dr Reef ensures your Blue Hippo Tang arrives healthy, parasite-free, fully conditioned, and eating well. This significantly reduces the risk of disease outbreaks, improves survival, and provides a smooth transition into your reef system. With proper care, your Blue Hippo Tang will become an active, vibrant centerpiece for years to come.