Pacific Blue Tang
Category: Salt Water
Facs about the Pacific Blue Tang it goes by different names and it is one of the species of the Surgeon Fish. The Pacific Blue Tang is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region but is also seen in various reefs around the world. This unique fish is also known as Blue Surgeonfish, Black tail Surgeonfish, Hippo Tang, Royal Blue Tang, and so much more. This splendid looking fish has a yellow tail, black palette design, and a Royal Blue body. There is a slight variety as the species found in the west-central Indian Ocean comes with a lower yellow body. The Pacific Blue Tang has a circular body shape, small scales, a pointed snout-like nose, and it is flat like a pancake. The Pacific Blue Tang can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm).
The Pacific Blue Tang can live in groups of about 10 to 12 or they can also live in pairs. However, except you have a tank that has about 100 gallons of water, it is ideal to have only one Pacific Blue Tang per tank. Between the ranges of 9 to 12 months, the Pacific Blue Tang have reached Sexual maturity. The male and the female spawn and the eggs are preserved with a drop of oil-like substance which helps it float on water. Also, it is important to mention that this Pacific Blue Tang can live up to five years or more if it is well fed. Although, there are some common infections such as Saltwater fish disease, it can be managed with good feeding.
The Adult Pacific Blue Tang is omnivorous and can feed on algae and plankton. It has been of little commercial interest except for its use as a bait fish. It usually forms a prominent part of each aquarium. The Pacific Blue Tang require rockwork to be able to sleep and hide as they are very nervy in their behavioral pattern. Furthermore, the Pacific Blue Tang fish has been observed to require extra care when it is placed in an aquarium. However, once it is fully acclimatized to its new environment, the Pacific Blue Tang can thrive and become part of the best inclusions in your collection.
The Caudal spine of the Pacific Blue Tang can be used to defend itself against any attack. Interestingly, this can also inflict injury on the fish which leaves it open to infection. Generally, due to its feeding pattern and lifestyle, it has great benefits both to nature and to the aquarium. It helps to feed on algae which can be hazardous in an aquarium if it grows out of proportion. It has also hit iconic status when as it has continued to enjoy great acceptance in popular culture. Generally, the Pacific Blue Tang is one of the most popular fish among other Tang species.
When the color of the Pacific Blue Tang changes from a dark blue hue to a very pale blue color, it shows that it is due for spawning. Also, the evening hours or the late afternoon has been observed as the time it uses to mate. Every aquarium owner would do well to apply some of the feeding and culture best practices to get the best out of this fish. In view of the growing concern on animal health, it is important to mention that the Pacific Blue Tang is not vulnerable. It is ideal for to spice up your space.