Whitecheek Tang (Acanthurus nigricans)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Whitecheek Tang is a dark gray to nearly black fish with a distinctive white or pale patch on the cheek (lower gill cover area). It has an oval, compressed body typical of Acanthuridae, with a scalpel-like spine on each side of the caudal peduncle characteristic of all surgeonfishes.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, provide high-quality herbivorous fare including nori sheets, spirulina-based pellets, and occasional meaty foods. Feed multiple times daily to replicate natural grazing behavior on algae and microorganisms.
Difficulty and care for the Whitecheek Tang
Moderate. The Whitecheek Tang requires stable water conditions, an appropriately sized tank (minimum 75 gallons), and a herbivore-rich diet. While hardier than some tangs, they can be territorial and are susceptible to marine ich under poor conditions.
Common health issues
Marine ich, marine velvet, bacterial infections, nutritional deficiencies
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Indonesia, Philippines, and extending eastward to Hawaii and the Great Barrier Reef.
Log Whitecheek 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 Whitecheek Tang alongside everything else in your reef.
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