Atlantic Doctorfish

Caribbean Surgeon Tang (Acanthurus chirurgus)

The Caribbean Surgeon Tang is an active and hardy saltwater fish that brings constant movement and personality to larger marine aquariums. With its sleek body, bluish-gray to olive coloration, subtle markings, and classic surgeonfish shape, this tang makes a great addition for hobbyists looking for an energetic algae grazer.

Native to Caribbean reefs and rocky coastal areas, this species spends much of its day grazing on algae from rocks and other surfaces. In the aquarium, it does best with plenty of open swimming space, mature live rock, and regular algae-based feedings.

The Caribbean Surgeon Tang is generally peaceful toward many tankmates but may become territorial toward other tangs or similar-shaped fish, especially in smaller systems. It is considered reef safe and can be a great addition to established reef aquariums.

This species should be offered a varied herbivore-focused diet, including marine algae, nori, spirulina-based flakes or pellets, and occasional meaty frozen foods. Because of its active swimming behavior and adult size, it is best suited for larger, well-established aquariums.

Quick Facts:

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Diet: Herbivore
Reef Safe: Yes