Yellow Shoulder Tang

The Yellow Shoulder Tang is a beautiful and active marine fish known for its dark body, bright yellow shoulder markings, and elegant shape. It is a hardy algae grazer and a popular choice for large marine and reef aquariums.

Family: Acanthuridae (Surgeonfish and Tang family)

Scientific Name: Acanthurus xanthopterus

Common Name: Yellow Shoulder Tang

Behavior:

Active, energetic, and generally peaceful toward most community fish. It can become territorial toward other tangs, especially fish with a similar body shape. Plenty of swimming space and carefully selected tank mates help reduce aggression.

Diet:

Primarily herbivorous. Provide a varied diet of marine algae, nori/seaweed, spirulina, algae-based pellets, and other vegetable-based foods. Regular access to algae is important for maintaining good health and natural coloration.

Size:

Can grow to approximately 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) in length.

Reef Safe:

Yes, generally reef safe. Yellow Shoulder Tangs are excellent algae grazers and normally leave corals and most reef invertebrates alone.

Best Aquarium:

A large, mature marine or reef aquarium of at least 180 gallons (680 liters) is recommended, with a larger aquarium preferred for adult specimens. Provide plenty of open swimming space, live rock for grazing, hiding areas, strong water movement, and excellent oxygenation.

Care Level:

Intermediate to Advanced

Summary:

The Yellow Shoulder Tang is an attractive, active, and generally reef-safe fish that adds color and movement to a large marine aquarium. Its excellent algae-grazing habits and impressive adult size make it best suited to experienced aquarists with spacious, well-established reef systems