Orange shoulder Surgeon Tang

About this fish

The Orange shoulder Surgeon Tang (Acanthurus olivaceus) is a saltwater surgeonfish for the home reef aquarium. As an active grazer, it helps add movement and vibrant presence to the tank while spending much of its time feeding on algae. This tang is typically used in reef setups where you can provide ample open swimming space and a steady, algae-forward diet.

Features:

• Active, long-swimming tang that benefits from an open layout and plenty of room to move
• Naturally grazes algae throughout the day, making it a good fit for tanks that support regular feeding of plant-based foods
• Diet can include algae sheets and seaweed, along with frozen and pellet foods for variety
• Has a sharp spine near the tail; handle with care and avoid sudden disruptions during tank changes
• Can be territorial toward other tangs, so plan tankmates thoughtfully
• Often considered reef safe with corals, but keep an eye on compatibility after introduction
• Arrives ready for acclimation—introduce slowly and allow it a quiet spot to settle in

Specifications:

• Shop name (exact): Orange shoulder Surgeon Tang
• Scientific name: Acanthurus olivaceus
• Group: Tangs & surgeonfish
• Common behavior: Active grazer; may be territorial toward other tangs
• Notable physical trait: Sharp spine near the tail (use caution)
• Diet: Algae sheets and seaweed daily; can also be offered frozen and pellet foods
• Sizes offered: Juv Bright Yellow Phase, Tiny (1"–2"), Small, Medium, Medium-Large, Large, XLarge, XXLarge