Convict Tang (Acanthurus triostegus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Convict Tang has a distinctive silvery-white body with bold vertical black stripes running from head to tail, resembling a striped pattern. The body is moderately compressed laterally with a small mouth adapted for grazing. Sharp spines are present on the caudal peduncle (tail base), characteristic of all tangs in the family Acanthuridae.
Diet and feeding
Feed primarily high-quality marine herbivore preparations, dried seaweed (nori), and algae-based pellets 1-2 times daily. Supplement with fresh macroalgae and ensure abundant natural algae growth in the aquarium. Grazes continuously on algae in well-established reef systems.
Difficulty and care for the Convict Tang
Moderately difficult for beginners. Convict Tangs require stable water conditions, adequate space to swim, and a mature aquarium with established algae growth. They are sensitive to poor water quality and may develop health issues if tank parameters fluctuate.
Common health issues
Ich (marine velvet), fin rot, parasitic infections, nutritional deficiencies
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa and the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to the central Pacific, including the Hawaiian Islands and Great Barrier Reef. Found in shallow reef environments and coastal areas.
Log Convict 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 Convict Tang alongside everything else in your reef.
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