Yellow Tang (Hawaiian)

Also known as the Hawaiian Yellow Tang or Zebrasoma flavescens.
The Yellow Tang (Hawaiian) is a bright, iconic tang highly prized for its vibrant yellow coloration and active grazing behavior. Native to the reefs of Hawaii, this species is a peaceful herbivore that thrives in reef aquariums, helping control algae growth while adding a stunning visual presence. Wild-caught Hawaiian Yellow Tangs are highly sought after, but quarantined specimens ensure health, stability, and disease-free acclimation for long-term aquarium success.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma flavescens
• Common Names: Yellow Tang (Hawaiian), Hawaiian Yellow Tang
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Peaceful; may show mild territoriality with other tangs
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe, does not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 80 gallons (150+ recommended for best results)
• Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate, hardy but benefits from stable conditions

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reefs throughout Hawaii, often in surge zones and reef slopes with moderate to strong water movement. They thrive in areas with abundant algae for grazing.

Tank Environment:

• Moderate to strong water flow with open swimming areas
• Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
• Stable water parameters with high oxygen levels
• UV sterilizer recommended for parasite prevention

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Protein skimmer
• Moderate circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Hawaiian Yellow Tangs are herbivorous and graze constantly on algae. Proper diet and supplemental feeding help maintain color and overall health.

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

Hawaiian Yellow Tangs are peaceful and integrate well into reef and community aquariums. Mild territoriality may occur in smaller tanks or with other tangs.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful community fish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, anthias, and most reef-safe species
• Caution with: other tangs in confined spaces
• Avoid: overcrowding of surgeonfish

Color & Development
They exhibit bright, uniform yellow coloration from juvenile to adult stages. Proper diet, lighting, and water stability help maintain the intensity of their iconic yellow hue.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 2–3 inches and grow steadily to 6–8 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 30–45 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:
Wild-caught Hawaiian Yellow Tangs can be prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) or HLLE. Quarantined specimens significantly reduce these risks.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

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

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended:
Quarantined Hawaiian Yellow 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 Hawaiian Yellow Tangs in captivity is extremely rare. Most spawning occurs only in large, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Yellow Tang (Hawaiian)?

Quarantined Hawaiian Yellow Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt efficiently to aquarium life. Their health, coloration, and natural grazing behavior are ensured, making them a bright, hardy, and functional addition to reef aquariums.