Chocolate Tang (Acanthurus pyroferus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Chocolate Tang is a rich brown to dark chocolate-colored tang with a distinctive elongated, compressed body typical of the Acanthuridae family. It features a slightly paler or cream-colored head region and sharp venomous spines on both sides of the caudal peduncle. Adults develop a somewhat rounded body profile and darker coloration as they mature.
Diet and feeding
Feed high-quality herbivorous marine flakes or pellets, supplemented with fresh or frozen nori seaweed multiple times daily. Provide algae sheets or spirulina-based foods to ensure adequate plant matter intake and support natural grazing behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Chocolate Tang
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, parasitic infections, nutritional deficiencies (vitamin A), fin erosion
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Found in coral reef environments from shallow reef slopes to deeper areas with moderate current.
Log Chocolate Tang in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Chocolate Tang alongside everything else in your reef.
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