Yellow Tang (Captive Bred)

Also known as the Yellow Tang or Zebrasoma flavescens.
The Yellow Tang is one of the most iconic and visually striking reef tangs, recognized for its bright, uniform yellow coloration and graceful swimming. Captive-bred specimens are especially hardy, disease-resistant, and adapt quickly to aquarium life, making them ideal for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. Native to the reefs of Hawaii, this tang is an active grazer that helps maintain algae balance in reef tanks while adding a vibrant splash of color.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma flavescens
• Common Names: Yellow Tang, Captive-Bred Yellow Tang
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Peaceful; may be territorial with other tangs
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe, does not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 80 gallons (150+ recommended for best results)
• Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate, hardy and adaptable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reefs throughout Hawaii and the Central Pacific. They thrive in moderate to strong water currents with abundant algae.

Tank Environment:

• Moderate to strong water flow with open swimming areas
• Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
• Stable water parameters with high oxygen levels
• UV sterilizer recommended for disease prevention

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Protein skimmer
• Moderate circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Yellow Tangs are primarily herbivorous, grazing constantly on algae. Captive-bred specimens accept prepared foods readily, reducing stress and improving health.

Recommended Foods:

• Nori sheets (green, red, brown)
• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety
• Vitamin-enriched foods for immune support

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 2–3 times daily
• Provide continuous access to algae or nori
• Rotate food types for balanced nutrition

Behavior & Compatibility

Yellow Tangs are generally peaceful and integrate well into community and reef setups. They may establish mild territory in smaller tanks or with other tangs.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful community fish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, anthias, and most reef-safe species
• Caution with: other tangs in smaller tanks
• Avoid: overcrowding of surgeonfish

Color & Development
Captive-bred Yellow Tangs display vibrant yellow coloration from juvenile stages, maintaining brightness with proper diet and stable water conditions. Healthy specimens exhibit smooth fins and active swimming behavior.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 2–3 inches and grow steadily to 6–8 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 30–45 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide immediate access to algae and hiding areas
• Avoid adding to new or unstable tanks

Health Considerations:
Captive-bred Yellow Tangs are hardy but can be susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) if water quality is poor. Quarantined specimens greatly reduce this risk.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Active grazing and swimming
• Clear eyes and smooth fins
• Strong appetite and vibrant coloration
• No flashing or labored breathing

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended:
Even captive-bred specimens benefit from quarantine. Dr Reef’s quarantine protocol ensures each fish is:

• Observed and treated preventatively
• Conditioned to aquarium diet
• Stabilized before shipment

Breeding Potential

Breeding Yellow Tangs in captivity has been achieved, particularly with captive-bred stock, though spawning requires large, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Yellow Tang (Captive Bred)?

Quarantined captive-bred Yellow Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt efficiently to aquarium life. Their health, coloration, and algae-grazing behavior are ensured, making them a bright, hardy, and low-stress addition to reef aquariums.