Clown Tang

Also known as the Clown Surgeonfish or Acanthurus lineatus
The Clown Tang is a vibrant, visually striking tang featuring bold horizontal stripes in blue, yellow, and black along its body. Native to the Indo-Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef and Fiji, this active reef grazer is admired for both its algae-eating abilities and brilliant coloration. Hardy, energetic, and reef-safe, Clown Tangs are an excellent choice for intermediate and advanced aquarists seeking a lively and eye-catching addition to their reef aquarium.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Acanthurus lineatus
• Common Names: Clown Tang, Clown Surgeonfish, Lined Surgeonfish
• Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Active, alert, and assertive, especially toward other tangs. Peaceful with most non-tang species.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe 
• Minimum Tank Size: 250 gallons
• Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Found on coral-rich reefs, lagoons, and reef slopes at depths of 5–100 feet. Feeds primarily on filamentous algae and detritus.

Tank Environment:

• Extensive live rock for grazing and hiding
• Open swimming areas for active movement
• Moderate to strong water flow to mimic natural 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

Clown Tangs are herbivorous grazers but will accept a variety of prepared foods once acclimated.

Recommended Foods:

• Pellets/Flakes: Algae-based, spirulina, herbivore formulas
• Frozen Foods: Finely chopped marine algae, 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 ensures healthy digestion and maintains vibrant coloration

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament: Active, alert, and assertive, especially toward other tangs. Peaceful with most non-tang species.
• Tank Mates: Compatible with most peaceful reef fish including gobies, wrasses, blennies, and non-aggressive tangs of different genera. Caution with aggressive tangs or large predatory fish.
• Pairing Behavior: Can be kept singly or in pairs in large tanks. Juveniles adapt more readily to community environments.

Reef Compatibility

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

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimation over 45–60 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization (15–20 minutes)
• Dim 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 smooth fins
• Vibrant, uniform coloration with sharp stripes

Color & Development

Coloration Characteristics:

• Body: Bright blue with vivid yellow and black horizontal stripes
• Fins: Blue with yellow margins
• Eyes: Clear and bright

Color Intensity:

• High-quality diet maintains vivid stripes
• Proper lighting enhances coloration
• Stress or poor water quality may cause temporary fading

Size & Growth:

• Juveniles start at 3–4 inches
• Reach adult size (10–12 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

Breeding Clown Tangs in captivity is extremely rare. Spawning behavior may occur in large, well-established reef systems with optimal water quality, abundant grazing surfaces, and stable conditions. Raising larvae requires specialized expertise and equipment, making successful captive breeding a challenge best left to professional facilities.

Why Choose a Quarantined Clown Tang?

A fully quarantined Clown Tang offers better long-term success, fewer health issues, stronger feeding habits, and a smoother transition into your display tank, giving you confidence that your new tang will thrive in your reef system.