Chevron Tang

Also known as the Sailfin Tang or Hawaiian Chevron Tang
The Chevron Tang is a striking marine tang known for its elegant sail-like fins and bold, chevron-patterned body. Native to the central and western Pacific, including Hawaii, this active reef grazer is highly valued for its algae-eating abilities and vibrant appearance. Hardy, peaceful, and adaptable, Chevron Tangs are an excellent choice for both intermediate and experienced hobbyists seeking a visually stunning and functional reef fish.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis
• Common Names: Chevron Tang, Sailfin Tang, Hawaiian Chevron Tang
• Adult Size: 7–9 inches (18–23 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful; can be territorial with conspecifics
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe – will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
• Experience Level: Intermediate – hardy but requires stable water and adequate space

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Natural Habitat: Found on coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons at depths of 10–120 feet, feeding primarily on algae and detritus.
• Tank Environment:
  • Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
  • Open swimming areas for active movement
  • Moderate to strong water flow to mimic reef currents
  • Established, stable aquariums recommended (3+ months)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm
  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Essential Equipment:
  • Efficient protein skimmer
  • Strong filtration system
  • Stable lighting suitable for reef or FOWLR setups
  • Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Chevron Tangs are primarily herbivores but will accept a variety of prepared foods once acclimated.

• Recommended Foods:
  • Pellets/Flakes: Algae-based, spirulina, herbivore formulas
  • Frozen Foods: Marine algae, finely chopped seaweed, phytoplankton
  • Plant Matter: Nori sheets, spirulina sheets
  • Prepared Mixes: Herbivore blends, enriched frozen preparations
• Feeding Schedule:
  • Feed 2–3 times daily
  • Offer portions they can consume in 2–3 minutes
  • Variety prevents nutritional deficiencies and maintains vibrant coloration

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • Generally peaceful and active
  • Can become territorial with conspecifics or similar-shaped tangs
  • Active swimmers, often interacting with tankmates
• Tank Mates:
  • Compatible with peaceful community fish including gobies, wrasses, blennies, cardinalfish, and other tangs of different genera
  • Caution with aggressive tangs or predatory species
• Pairing Behavior:
  • Can be kept singly or in pairs in large tanks
  • Juveniles adapt more easily to community setups

Reef Compatibility:

Completely reef-safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
Excellent choice for mixed reef aquariums

Acclimation & Care Tips

• Initial Acclimation:
  • Use drip acclimation over 45–60 minutes
  • Float bag for temperature equalization (15–20 minutes)
  • Dim tank lights during introduction
• Health Considerations:
  • Susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) if stressed
  • Quarantine for 2–3 weeks before adding to display tank
• Signs of a Healthy Specimen:
  • Active grazing and swimming
  • Clear eyes and vibrant coloration
  • Smooth fins with no tears or damage

Color & Development

• Coloration Characteristics:
  • Body: Olive-brown to gray with bright chevron-like stripes
  • Fins: Sail-like dorsal and anal fins with yellow highlights
  • Eyes: Bright and clear
• Color Intensity:
  • High-quality diet maintains vivid stripes
  • Proper lighting enhances color contrast
  • Stress or poor water quality may cause temporary fading
• Size & Growth:
  • Juveniles start at 2–3 inches
  • Reach adult size (7–9 inches) within 12–18 months

Special Considerations

• Quarantine is Recommended:
  • Observed for parasites and disease
  • Monitored for appetite and activity
  • Conditioned to prepared aquarium foods
• Captive-Bred Advantages:
  • Better adaptation to aquarium life
  • Reduced disease risk
  • More consistent coloration

Breeding Potential:

While breeding Chevron Tangs in home aquariums is extremely challenging, captive-bred pairs may occasionally display spawning behavior in large, well-established reef systems. Spawning typically requires pristine water conditions, ample live rock, and abundant grazing surfaces. Hobbyists who observe this behavior can gain valuable insight into tang reproduction, though raising larvae is best left to advanced aquarists or professional breeding facilities.

Why Choose a Quarantined Chevron Tang?

A quarantined Chevron Tang is healthier, stress-free, and ready to thrive in your aquarium. Our protocol ensures that fish are observed for health, acclimated to aquarium diets, cleared of parasites, and monitored for behavioral stability, giving hobbyists confidence in their long-term success in reef or FOWLR systems.