Regal Tang Care Guide

Scientific Names: Paracanthuras hepatus
Origin: Tropical Indo Pacific
Adult Size: 12”
Difficulty Level: Easy
Diet: Herbivorous
Min. Tank Size: 55 gallons
Compatibility: Peaceful*
Reef Safe: Yes

The Regal Tang is one of the most recognized saltwater aquarium fish. It has many common names including Hippo Tang, Palette Tang, Royal Blue Tang, and often just “Dory” after the name of the Disney™ character that was based on this fish. Its brilliant color and bold personality give any aquarium the “Wow” factor. In nature they occur in groups and are generally peaceful fish, but in an aquarium they can be territorial towards each other as well as other tangs. It’s therefore best to keep them individually in all but extremely large aquariums. When keeping multiple Regal Tangs or mixing them with other surgeonfish species, introduce these fish to the aquarium at the same time to avoid territorial disputes. They are strict herbivores and should be fed dried seaweed and other plant-based foods. Meat-based foods are fine as an occasional treat but should not be used as a steady diet. Exercise care when handling them in a net as the spine at the base of their tail, which is used defensively, can inflict injury.

Temperature: 74°- 80° F
Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
pH: 8.0 – 8.4
KH: 8° - 12°
Nitrate: < 10 ppm
Regardless of your experience level, always research any animal before purchasing.