Purple Tang

Introduction

The Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum), also known as the Yellowtail Sailfin Tang, is a striking marine fish recognized for its deep purple body and contrasting bright yellow tail. Native to the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula, this highly sought-after tang is a favorite among marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its bold coloration, active swimming behavior, and algae-grazing benefits.

Scientific Name

Zebrasoma xanthurum

Common Name

Purple Tang, Yellowtail Sailfin Tang

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: 74°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C)
• pH Level: 8.1 to 8.4
• Salinity: Specific gravity of 1.023 to 1.025
• KH Level: 8 to 12 dKH
• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm (both should be undetectable for a healthy system)
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm to prevent stress and maintain vibrant coloration

Feeding

• Diet Type: Primarily herbivorous, but benefits from occasional protein-rich foods.
• Algae: A major part of their diet—offer nori, spirulina, and other marine algae.
• Pellets & Flakes: High-quality herbivore pellets or flakes formulated for marine fish.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement with mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or other meaty foods to provide variety.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed multiple times a day to maintain energy levels and coloration.

Tank Mates

• Compatible Tank Mates: Generally compatible with other reef-safe fish, including clownfish, wrasses, gobies, and other peaceful to semi-aggressive species.
• Avoid: Other tangs, especially those from the Zebrasoma genus, as they may become territorial and aggressive. If housing multiple tangs, introduce them simultaneously in a large tank to reduce aggression.

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: A fine to medium-grain sandy substrate is ideal.
• Decorations: Live rock with ample hiding spaces and grazing areas is essential.
• Tank Design: Open swimming space is crucial, as Purple Tangs are highly active swimmers.

Suitable Plants

While Purple Tangs do not interact with plants directly, live rock covered in natural algae helps them feel at home and provides a natural grazing source.

Sexing

Sexing Purple Tangs is difficult, as there are no significant visual differences between males and females.

Breeding

• Breeding in Captivity: Extremely rare, as they are open-water spawners requiring vast space and specific conditions.
• Fry Care: If breeding occurs, fry require planktonic food sources and specialized rearing environments.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Grows up to 10 inches (25 cm).
• Lifespan: Can live for 10 to 15 years with proper care.

General Information

The Purple Tang is a highly prized addition to marine aquariums due to its vibrant coloration and algae-grazing habits. It thrives in a well-maintained reef tank with proper space, diet, and tank mates. While known for being somewhat aggressive, especially toward other tangs, it can coexist peacefully with a well-thought-out tank setup.

A Fun Fact

The Purple Tang’s bright yellow tail and deep purple body make it one of the most visually striking tangs in the hobby. Its sharp scalpel-like spine near the tail base is used for defense and territorial disputes!