Clown tang

The Clown Tang is one of the most striking surgeonfish in the marine aquarium hobby. Its incredible pattern of electric-blue horizontal stripes outlined in black over a brilliant yellow and orange body makes this fish nearly impossible to miss in a large reef display.

Clown Tangs are extremely active, powerful swimmers and spend much of their day cruising the aquarium and grazing. They require excellent water quality, high oxygenation, strong water movement and plenty of uninterrupted swimming space. Adults can reach approximately 15 inches. (LiveAquaria⁠)

This species is generally reef safe with corals and invertebrates, but its temperament is another story. Clown Tangs can be highly territorial, particularly toward other tangs and similarly shaped fish, and their aggression can increase substantially as they mature. (LiveAquaria⁠)

Their diet should be heavily focused on marine algae and vegetable matter. Offer nori and other marine algae regularly, supplemented with spirulina-based foods and high-quality frozen and prepared marine foods.

Because of their adult size, activity level and temperament, Clown Tangs are best suited to experienced aquarists with very large, established systems.

Scientific Name: Acanthurus lineatus
Common Name: Clown Tang / Lined Surgeonfish
Maximum Size: Approximately 15”
Temperament: Aggressive
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Herbivore
Care Level: Advanced
Recommended Tank Size: 250+ gallons
Origin: Indo-Pacific (LiveAquaria⁠)

✨ Interesting Fact: The Clown Tang naturally inhabits high-energy reef environments and is built for constant movement. Those gorgeous stripes come attached to one seriously athletic—and occasionally seriously grumpy—fish. 😂