Blue Hippo Tang

The Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), also known as the Palette Surgeonfish, Regal Tang, or famously as Dory from the movie Finding Nemo, is a vibrant and popular saltwater fish found in coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. Here's a detailed care guide and description for this species:

Blue Tang Description:

• Scientific Name: Paracanthurus hepatus

• Common Names: Blue Tang, Regal Tang, Hippo Tang, Pacific Blue Tang, Palette Surgeonfish

• Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length

• Color: Vibrant royal blue body, black palette-shaped markings, and a bright yellow tail

• Lifespan: 8–20 years in captivity with proper care

• Behavior: Peaceful but can be territorial; active swimmers; can be shy at first

Blue Tang Care Guide:

Tank Requirements:

• Minimum Tank Size: 100–125 gallons (380–475 liters)

• Aquascaping: Plenty of swimming space with live rock for hiding and grazing

• Water Movement: Moderate to strong current

• Lighting: Moderate to strong (especially if live corals are present)

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Diet:

• Type: Herbivorous (but will accept omnivorous diets)

• Preferred Foods:

  • Marine algae (nori/seaweed sheets)

  • Spirulina

  • High-quality herbivore pellets

  • Occasional meaty foods like mysis shrimp

• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily

Tank Mates:

• Compatible With: Other peaceful reef fish, tangs (caution with similar species), clownfish, wrasses

• Avoid: Aggressive fish, other surgeonfish with similar shapes (can cause fights)

Special Notes:

• Ich Sensitivity: Blue Tangs are prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon irritans); quarantine new arrivals and maintain excellent water quality.

• Stress Management: Provide plenty of hiding spaces and stable water parameters.

• Reef Safe: Yes, typically does not bother corals or invertebrates.

Fun Fact:

The Blue Tang changes color slightly based on mood and lighting—sometimes appearing deeper blue or even purplish. Juveniles are usually bright yellow with blue highlights, gradually turning blue as they mature.