Scientific Name: Acanthurus achilles
Common Names: Achilles Tang, Achilles Surgeonfish
Size: Up to 9 inches (23 cm)
Lifespan: 8–10+ years with proper care
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially toward other tangs
Diet: Herbivore – primarily grazes on marine algae and seaweed
Reef Compatibility: Yes – completely reef-safe
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons or larger with strong water movement
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Salinity: 1.023–1.025
- dKH: 8–12
Appearance
Achilles Tangs feature a deep black body with a bright orange teardrop marking near the tail, as well as orange highlights on the dorsal and anal fins. Their tail fin has a white vertical stripe, giving them a sharp and striking look when swimming.
Care Requirements
Swimming Space: Requires plenty of open space and strong water flow to mimic reef surge zones.
Diet: Feed a varied herbivorous diet, including nori (dried seaweed), spirulina, and high-quality marine herbivore pellets.
Behavior: Can be territorial, especially with similar-shaped tangs. Best kept as a single tang in a tank unless very large.
Compatibility: Good with most peaceful community fish, but may become aggressive with other surgeonfish.
Why Choose the Achilles Tang?
✔ Visually stunning centerpiece for large saltwater tanks
✔ Reef-safe and algae-grazing
✔ Highly active and intelligent, often displaying personality
✔ Iconic in the saltwater community – a favorite of seasoned aquarists
Note: Achilles Tangs are known to be sensitive to water quality and stress, so they require stable, pristine conditions and lots of swimming room. Ideal for experienced hobbyists with mature tanks.
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