Purple Tang

About this fish

Purple Tang is a marine fish sold as “Purple Tang,” with the scientific name Zebrasoma xanthurum. It’s a brackish-to-reef aquarium tang (in the family Acanthuridae) valued for its active swimming behavior and grazing style, making it a popular choice for aquarists looking to add an algae-focused fish to a well-established saltwater tank.

Features:

• Active, strong swimmer that benefits from open swimming space
• Herbivorous grazer that typically does best with regular marine algae/seaweed-based foods
• Often more territorial toward similar-bodied tangs; plan compatible tankmates carefully
• Generally does best in stable, mature marine systems with consistent water chemistry
• Provides visual presence in reef and fish-only setups when kept in appropriate conditions
• May appreciate rockwork for foraging and sheltered spots, while still needing room to cruise

Specifications:

• Scientific name: Zebrasoma xanthurum
• Care level (general guidance): Moderate, best in stable established marine aquariums
• Temperament: Generally active; can be territorial with some similar fish
• Diet (general guidance): Herbivorous; marine algae/seaweed and algae-based foods
• Adult size (general guidance): Up to about 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
• Minimum tank size (general guidance): Often recommended 75 gal (≈284 L) or larger for adult growth and swimming space
• Temperature: About 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: About 1.020–1.025 SG
• pH: About 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: About 7–11 dKH
• Calcium: About 380–450 ppm
• Magnesium: About 1200–1350 ppm