Powder Blue Tang Hybrid (Acanthurus leucosternon x nigricans)

The Powder Blue Tang Hybrid is a rare and captivating cross between the Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon) and the White Cheek Tang (Acanthurus nigricans). This hybrid combines the vibrant blue body and striking yellow dorsal fin of the Powder Blue Tang with the bold white cheek patch and darker tones of the White Cheek Tang. Its unique coloration and rarity make it a prized addition for experienced aquarists with large tanks and stable water conditions.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 9 inches.
• Tank Size: 150 gallons minimum; requires ample swimming space and rockwork for grazing.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and biofilm. In captivity, it thrives on a varied diet of marine algae, seaweed sheets (nori), high-quality herbivore pellets, and occasional frozen foods like mysis or brine shrimp.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; territorial toward other tangs or similar-shaped fish, especially in smaller tanks.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires a stable, mature tank environment, specialized feeding, and careful tankmate selection.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and helps control algae growth, making it a functional and aesthetic addition to reef setups.

Special Features - Unique Hybrid Characteristics
The Powder Blue Tang Hybrid showcases a mesmerizing blend of features from its parent species. It has the Powder Blue Tang’s vibrant blue body and yellow dorsal fin combined with the distinctive white cheek patch and darker, subtle hues of the White Cheek Tang. These unique traits make it a highly sought-after addition to advanced marine tanks.

Compatibility
This hybrid tang does best in large tanks with plenty of swimming space and can coexist with other fish if introduced carefully. Avoid housing it with other tangs or similar-shaped species in smaller setups to reduce territorial disputes.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Powder Blue Tang Hybrid features a vibrant blue body with yellow dorsal accents and white cheek patches. Its hybrid origin creates a seamless blend of both parent species' traits, offering a unique and visually striking appearance.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Likely found in regions where the ranges of Acanthurus leucosternon and Acanthurus nigricans overlap, such as in the Indian Ocean and surrounding reef areas. In aquariums, it thrives in setups with live rock for grazing and open water for swimming​.

Additional Information: Due to its hybrid nature, specific data may vary. For further information, refer to related species: