Mimic Eibli Tang (Acanthurus tristis)

Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Mimic Eibli Tang

Quick facts

Scientific nameAcanthurus tristis
FamilyAcanthuridae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentAggressive
Dietherbivore
Adult size9 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Acanthurus tristis displays a dark brown to black body with distinctive yellow or orange vertical bands. The dorsal and anal fins are highlighted in yellow, and the fish has a characteristic white-tipped caudal fin, superficially resembling the Eibli angelfish.

Diet and feeding

In captivity, feed high-quality herbivorous flake foods, dried nori seaweed, and macroalgae (spirulina). Supplement with meaty foods occasionally (2-3 times weekly) such as mysis shrimp or enriched brine shrimp to ensure balanced nutrition.

Difficulty and care for the Mimic Eibli Tang

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Philippines and Indonesia, in coral reef environments.

Log Mimic Eibli 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 Mimic Eibli Tang alongside everything else in your reef.