Tank size for Tangs? An evaluation...

[Troy F]

Another interesting post. Marc (Fudge) and I touched on the subject the other day. He raised the same question about large angels and triggers, etc.. Why don't they receive the same scrutiny? Because we are predominantly reefers, they don't come up as a subject of discussion usually as they aren't really reef friendly. My feelings regarding the aforementioned species is the same as my view on tangs/surgeons.

I disagree with your view on trading the fish in. How many fish do you think Tak is going to accept? This might work for you but it certainly won't be an opportunity for everyone. You should have plans for the fishes entire lifespan when you buy it. That would be conscientious husbandry. When this subject was first brought up, it was because of SFF's Paracanthurus hepatus living in a 33gal tank. At one time there were two in there. He says that they're ~1.5" but the photo (as Canadian points out) clearly shows they are significantly larger. When do you decide when your fish goes to a larger home? What is a larger home? SFF's fish will make it's way to a 60, then what? One of the things hobbyists tend to do is exagerate in what ever direction makes them look better.

I think the point you make about mimics is interesting although, I don't know that it applies in the way you would like. I read what little I have on them and it only states that they mimic because the angel is less palatable. Correct me if I'm wrong but both families are grazers, they would starve if they just bolted to grab a bite here and there. My guess would be, they go from hiding spot to hiding spot while eating. The difference in keeping two different species with similar habits would be the maximum growth attained. A dwarf angel may be quite alright in a 50gal but a surgeon would be cramped.

Since you brought Centropyge spp. up, I have a few thoughts on them as well. I kept a C. potteri in my 72gal. He was ~1.5" and beautifully colored, my favourite fish but I questioned keeping him for two reasons; 1.) he made a clam nervous 2.) he would at times pace the glass frantically. Now, maybe the pacing at the glass was challenging his reflection but it could have been discomfort with being in captivity. The centropyge family are all widely accepted in smaller tanks but I do wonder if this is always the best place for them. My suspician is, that any grazing species of fish will be hit or miss in smaller tanks. Food for thought.