Lavender Tang (Acanthurus Nigrofuscus)

The Lavender Tang, also known as the Brown Tang or Spot-Cheeked Surgeonfish, is a peaceful and hardy marine species known for its subtle yet beautiful coloration. Its lavender-gray body is accented with faint spots and a darker face mask, making it a charming and understated addition to reef aquariums. As an efficient algae grazer, the Lavender Tang helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in the tank.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches.
• Tank Size: 100 gallons minimum; larger tanks are recommended to provide ample space for swimming and grazing.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and should be provided with a diet rich in marine-based seaweed, algae, and high-quality herbivore pellets. Supplement with fresh greens like nori to maintain their health.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; generally gets along well with other fish but may show territorial behavior towards other tangs or similar species, especially in smaller tanks.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; relatively hardy and easy to care for, making it a good choice for aquarists with moderate experience.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and helps control algae growth, making it a beneficial addition to reef tanks.

Special Requirement - Algae Grazing
The Lavender Tang requires a diet high in algae to stay healthy and thrive. In addition to providing plenty of live rock with natural algae growth, offering supplemental seaweed and vegetable-based foods is essential for their well-being.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Lavender Tang features a lavender to grayish body with darker areas near the cheeks and faint spots on the flanks. Its colors may deepen under different lighting conditions, giving the fish a soft, shimmering appearance​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Lavender Tang is found in coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, including regions like the Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit shallow waters and are often seen grazing on algae along reef slopes and rocky areas