Sohal Tang (Acanthurus sohal)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Sohal Tang displays a striking pattern of electric blue and white horizontal stripes on a silvery body, with the head and upper body predominantly blue. The dorsal and anal fins are yellow with blue accents. This tang has the characteristic flattened, disc-like body shape typical of the genus Acanthurus, and possesses sharp, blade-like spines on the caudal peduncle (tail base) used for defense.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, feed high-quality marine algae-based pellets, nori (dried seaweed), and fresh macroalgae like ulva or sea lettuce daily. Sohal Tangs are primarily herbivorous grazers and require substantial vegetable matter to maintain health and coloration.
Difficulty and care for the Sohal Tang
The Sohal Tang is an expert-level fish requiring a very large aquarium, excellent water quality, and experienced handling. It is highly aggressive toward other tangs and similar-sized fish, making tankmate selection extremely difficult.
Common health issues
Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Fungal Diseases
Origin and habitat
Red Sea and Indo-Pacific region, including the Arabian Gulf and parts of the Indian Ocean. The species is endemic to the Red Sea and adjacent waters.
Log Sohal 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 Sohal Tang alongside everything else in your reef.
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