Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang

Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang

Also known as Goldrim Whitecheek Surgeonfish 
The Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang is a striking reef tang recognized for its elegant silver-gray body, bold white cheeks, and distinctive gold-edged dorsal and caudal fins. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and Hawaii, this tang is highly active and hardy, making it a popular choice for experienced aquarists. Captive-bred specimens adapt well to aquariums, offering aquarists a colorful and resilient centerpiece fish.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigricans
Common Names: Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang, Dussumieri Tang, Goldrim Surgeonfish
Adult Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
Lifespan: 8–12+ years with proper care
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; generally peaceful but may defend territory against other tangs
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe 
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallon
Experience Level: Intermediate \

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Found on seaward reef slopes, channels, and lagoons at depths of 15–80 feet. Feeds primarily on filamentous algae and detritus.

Tank Environment:

• Open swimming space is essential
• Moderate water flow to mimic natural currents
• Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
• Secure lid to prevent jumping
• Established aquariums recommended (3+ months)

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Efficient protein skimmer
• Strong filtration system
• Moderate-to-strong lighting
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Gold Rim Whitecheek Tangs are primarily herbivorous but will accept prepared foods once acclimated.

Recommended Foods:

• Pellets/Flakes: Algae-based, spirulina, herbivore formulas
• Frozen Foods: Finely chopped marine algae, phytoplankton
• Plant Matter: Nori sheets, spirulina sheets
• Prepared Mixes: Herbivore blends, enriched frozen preparations

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 2–3 times daily
• Offer portions they can consume in 2–3 minutes
• Variety ensures healthy digestion and maintains vibrant coloration

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament: Generally peaceful with most species but may show territorial behavior toward other tangs

Tank Mates: Compatible with most peaceful reef fish including gobies, wrasses, blennies, and non-aggressive tangs. Exercise caution with aggressive tangs or predatory species.

Pairing Behavior: Can be kept singly or in groups in large aquariums. Juveniles adapt more readily to community environments.

Reef Compatibility

• Completely reef-safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Excellent choice for mixed reef aquariums

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimation over 45–60 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization (15–20 minutes)
• Dim lights during introduction

Health Considerations:

• Susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) if stressed
• Quarantine for 2–3 weeks before adding to display tank

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Active grazing and swimming
• Clear eyes and smooth fins
• Vibrant silver-gray body with bright gold fin edges

Color & Development

Coloration Characteristics:

• Body: Silver-gray
• Fins: Gold-edged dorsal and caudal fins
• Cheeks: Bold white patches
• Eyes: Clear and bright

Color Intensity:

• High-quality diet maintains vivid gold and silver tones
• Proper lighting enhances contrast
• Stress or poor water quality may cause temporary fading

Size & Growth:

• Juveniles start at 3–4 inches
• Reach adult size (12–14 inches) within 18–24 months

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended: Observed for parasites and disease, monitored for appetite and activity, conditioned to prepared aquarium foods.

Captive-Bred Advantages:

• Better adaptation to aquarium life
• Reduced disease risk
• More consistent coloration
• Stronger feeding habits

Breeding Potential:
Breeding Gold Rim Whitecheek Tangs in captivity is rare. Spawning may occur in large, mature reef systems with optimal conditions, abundant grazing surfaces, and stable water quality. Raising larvae is complex and generally requires professional facilities.

Why Choose a Quarantined Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang?

A fully quarantined Gold Rim Whitecheek Tang offers better long-term success, fewer health issues, stronger feeding habits, and a smoother transition into your display tank, giving you confidence that your new tang will thrive and showcase its stunning gold-rimmed fins in your reef system.