Black-Barred Zebra Tang

Also known as the Black-Barred Surgeonfish or Zebra Surgeonfish, the Black-Barred Zebra Tang is a beautifully patterned reef herbivore found throughout the Indo-Pacific. Its alternating dark vertical bars, elongated oval body, and constant grazing behavior make it both a functional algae-controller and a visually striking addition to large reef aquariums. Peaceful, energetic, and always active, this tang is ideal for aquarists seeking a hardy and engaging surgeonfish with unique markings.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Acanthurus polyzona
Common Names: Black-Barred Zebra Tang, Zebra Surgeonfish, Black-Barred Tang
Adult Size: 7–8 inches (17–20 cm)
Lifespan: 10–15+ years in stable, mature aquariums
Temperament: Generally peaceful; may show territorial behavior toward other similar tangs
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe, does not nip corals or invertebrates.
Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons (larger strongly recommended)
Experience Level: Intermediate, needs space, stable water, and consistent grazing

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Native to shallow reefs and lagoons across the Indo-Pacific, where they spend most of their day grazing algae from rock surfaces, coral rubble, and reef slopes. They thrive in high-oxygen, clean waters with plenty of movement.

Tank Environment:

• Large open swimming space for constant movement
• Live rock with ample natural algae for grazing
• Strong water flow to mimic reef currents
• High oxygenation and stable parameters
• Secure rockwork with caves and overhangs for resting

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm (lower is preferred)
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• High-quality protein skimmer
• Strong mechanical and biological filtration
• Wave makers for good flow
• UV sterilizer recommended for parasite prevention
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly or 20% biweekly)

Diet & Feeding

Black-Barred Zebra Tangs are primary herbivores, relying on constant algae grazing for long-term health.

Recommended Foods:

• Nori (dried seaweed) clipped daily
• Spirulina-based pellets and flakes
• Algae sheets (red, green, brown)
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety
• Vitamin-soaked foods for immunity
• Garlic-enhanced foods to prevent parasites

Feeding Schedule:

• 2–3 small feedings daily
• Provide algae sheets throughout the day
• Ensure continuous grazing opportunities

A varied, algae-rich diet ensures vibrant coloration and strong immunity.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:

• Active, peaceful, and almost always swimming
• May show mild aggression toward other Acanthurus tangs
• Works well in large community reef tanks

Tank Mates:
Compatible with:

• Clownfish, gobies, blennies, firefish, cardinalfish
• Wrasses, anthias, peaceful angels
• Most other peaceful community fish

Caution with:

• Other tangs with similar body shape
• Aggressive surgeonfish and triggers

Avoid:

• Large predators that may intimidate or chase
• Multiple Acanthurus species in small tanks

Reef Compatibility:

• Completely reef-safe
• Will not harm corals or inverts
• Excellent natural algae grazer

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Use a 45–60 minute drip acclimation
• Float bag for 15–20 minutes for temperature match
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide hiding places to reduce early stress

Health Considerations:
Black-Barred Zebra Tangs are generally hardy but can be susceptible to:

• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon)
• Marine Velvet (Amyloodinium)
• Head and Lateral Line Erosion (HLLE) if diet lacks algae and vitamins

Quarantined specimens from Dr Reef arrive fully conditioned, parasite-managed, and eating prepared foods.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Constant grazing and active swimming
• Clear eyes and intact fins
• Strong appetite
• Sharp, defined stripes
• Smooth breathing with no flashing or scratching

Color & Development

Coloration Characteristics:

• Pale to silver base
• Sharp vertical black bars covering the body
• Tail and fins with subtle shading
• Markings remain visible from juvenile to adult stages

Color Intensity Factors:

• Algae-rich diet increases contrast
• Clean, stable water keeps stripes crisp
• Stress or poor nutrition may reduce vibrancy

Size & Growth:

• Juveniles start around 2–3 inches
• Reach adult size (7–8 inches) within 2–3 years
• Thrive best in tanks over 150 gallons as adults

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Essential:
Dr Reef’s specimens undergo full quarantine, including:

• 3–4 weeks observation
• Prophylactic treatment when needed
• Dietary conditioning
• Parasite prevention
• Stress reduction and full acclimation

This ensures your tang arrives healthy, eating well, and ready for a display tank.

Compatibility Notes:

• Best kept as a single tang unless the tank is exceptionally large
• Requires continuous algae availability
• Needs high oxygen and strong filtration due to activity level

Breeding Potential

Breeding the Black-Barred Zebra Tang in home aquariums is extremely rare, as they require large ocean-like open water and group spawning conditions that cannot be replicated in typical home systems. While they may show natural courtship in very large tanks, actual spawning success is almost unheard of in captivity.

Why Choose a Quarantined Black-Barred Zebra Tang?

A quarantined specimen from Dr Reef ensures you receive a healthy, stable, parasite-free, and fully conditioned fish that transitions smoothly into your display aquarium. With improved immunity, strong feeding response, and reduced stress, your Black-Barred Zebra Tang will become a long-term, active, and beautiful member of your reef community.