Yellow Tang
Species: Zebrasoma flavescens
Origin: Hawaii, Central & Western Pacific
Family: Acanthuridae
Overview:
The Yellow Tang is one of the most iconic and recognizable marine fish in the aquarium trade. Known for its bright lemon-yellow coloration and graceful oval body, this active swimmer brings constant motion and vibrant color to any saltwater system. Native to Hawaiian reefs but also found throughout the Central and Western Pacific, the Yellow Tang is often referred to as the Yellow Sailfin Tang or Yellow Surgeonfish.
Best housed in aquariums of 100 gallons or more, this species requires ample open space for swimming and plenty of live rock for grazing. While generally peaceful, it can become territorial toward other tangs or similarly shaped species—especially if introduced after tankmates are already established. If keeping multiples, they should be introduced simultaneously to reduce aggression.
Although it may accept meaty foods, the Yellow Tang’s primary diet should consist of marine algae and seaweed. A diet rich in vegetable matter helps boost immune function, reduce aggression, and maintain long-term health. Offer dried seaweed or algae sheets tied to a rock or veggie clip at least three times per week for optimal nutrition.
Care Details:
- Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
- Reef Compatible: Yes
- Diet: Herbivore (seaweed, marine algae, veggie-based foods)
- Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72 – 78°F
- pH: 8.1 – 8.4
- Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025
- dKH: 8 – 12
Available Sizes:
- Small (S): 1 – 2"
- Medium (M): 2 – 3"
- Large (L): 3 – 4"
- Extra Large (XL): 5 – 6"
Important Livestock Notices:
- This fish has not been quarantined.
- We recommend that all new fish are quarantined prior to introduction into your display system.
- Photos are for reference only — the fish you receive will not be the exact specimen pictured. Appearance may vary based on sex, maturity, region, and individual variation.
- All livestock must be drip-acclimated slowly to ensure a safe transition to your aquarium.
We totally understand that plans change! You can modify or cancel your order as long as it hasn’t been shipped yet. Just call or email us right away - our team will confirm if we can catch it before it leaves our facility.
If your order is already in transit, you’ll need to request a return once it arrives. Keep in mind that some items, like aquariums and livestock, can’t be returned.
For full terms, please refer to our Refund & Return Policy.
Placing an order is simple - just add your item to the cart & complete the checkout process online. Once your order is confirmed, we'll reach out to you directly to schedule a local pick-up appointment at our facility.
* All local pick-ups are by appointment only *
Order processing typically takes 1-2 business days for products that are in stock or readily available through our network of distributors. Some products, however, are fulfilled on demand directly from our distributors, which can slightly extend processing and delivery times depending on availability and location.
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If you’d like to confirm availability or request an ETA before placing your order, you’re always welcome to call or email us.