Tank size for Tangs? An evaluation...

[Diomedes]

I have been thinking about something for a while...why isn't this a hot topic for Centropyge (pygmy) angels, Large angels, Triggerfish, Puffers etc. etc. After all, Triggers and Puffers are roaming predators?
I THINK (not altogether too certainly) that it is because Tangs invariably are the favourite (maybe only) centerpiece fish in reef tanks. It has been really interesting (and thought provoking) to hear all of the responses and debate. It is clear to me, at least, that there are very few aquarists on this board that would endorse any purchase of a Med to Lg Tang, and a large number of conscientious people who extend the same courtesy to juveniles as well...I Share the same values in regards to the first group. I don't feel that I can naturally shape and nurture the development of my reef tank while there is a Tang attempting a 12-point turn in my 75 gallon. But on the subject of Juveniles....I have enjoyed trading in my personal (and proffesional - ie job related) Tangs to Tak at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center. He loves Tangs and invariably finds at least 400 gallons for them. Many of my Naso's, Yellows, a Powder blue, are still there as of last week when I dropped in. So I am all for trading up, and I feel that it is my devotion and attachment that causes me to do so. One thing is for sure, I will give them away in great condition with a fat little belly that has nothing to do with internal parasites. HeHe

Another thought - Why would it be that some Acanthuriids (tangs) mimic Centropyge spp. angelfish as Juveniles? I think (this is only a theory) that they also display the crytic, territorial behavior of these Dwarf angels when they are young. Borneman said it true when he proclaimed "The reef is a battle ground" Or was it "War Zone" ah whatever I don't remember exactly and I am too lazy to go downstairs and give you guys the direct quote.
It would be prudent on the part of a small tang to be very careful when he shows his ass outside of a coral head of some other crevice. Maybe only to get food and return to his lot, because you can bet there are a lot of hungry reef junkies that could benefit from a nutritious lottle omega-3 snackbar. So, many of you might see this as another attempt to justify my belief in keeping juvenile tangs. Well this isn't an attempt to justify - I just find it a curious thing (worthy of research) as to why two prominent reef tang species mimic cryptic (not roaming) fish. In general, mimics not only display morphological (physical characteristics) mimicry but also display behavioral mimicry as well.

Example:
Have you ever gotten the wrong type of Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)?

But when all is said and done, I recognize and admire the restraint of others who can resist trying to care for these little beauties, regardless if their beliefs are based on a world authority, their own private studies, or just a hunch that their little guys aren't happy. Whatever way you do it, if it is done well and things are growing and reproducing then invite me over and supply the beer.

Diomedes