Clown Tang

Care

The Clown Tang makes for an impressive addition to XXL aquaria. This belligerent fish grows large and requires adequate swimming space due to its active nature. Keep only one per tank, and not with any similar looking species or direct food competitors, as the Clown Tang is highly territorial. Generally speaking, this fish is safe in reef aquaria (provided that it is well fed), but do observe carefully as some specimens have been known to nip at LPS corals or take small crustaceans. It will actively browse on filamentous algae growing on the décor, so a mature tank is essential. Due to its highly quarrelsome temperament, the Clown Tang should be the last addition to the aquarium; tankmates must be very carefully considered beforehand. Ensure that corals are well secure, as this tang is capable of knocking them over during sudden dashes around the aquarium. In the wild, Clown Tangs are found in the powerful surge zones of exposed seaward reefs, up to a depth of 15 metres. Within sizeable shoals of adult fish, a large male will control a well-defined feeding area and harems of females. Juveniles are more solitary and secretive, and are generally found amongst shallower rubble habitats. Vigorous filtration and circulation is a must for this energetic, voracious eater. Take care when handling, as the venomous caudal spines are particularly large and can inflict a painful wound. Specimens from the Philippines exhibit different colour patterns.

Feeding

Feed a varied diet for omnivores, with a large vegetable component, in small amounts 3 times per day. Although this species will browse on algae within the aquarium, its diet must be supplemented with frozen herbivore rations, green marine flake, Spirulina (blue-green algae), Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, cucumber, lettuce, broccoli, Nori (dried seaweed) etc. It will also take meaty frozen foods, but be sure that it is receiving enough green food to help prevent HLLE. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.

Breeding

The Clown Tang has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, they are said to form large aggregations at spawning time, although they spawn in pairs only within such vast shoals.