Sohal Tang

Sohal Tang 

(Acanthurus sohal)

QUICK STATS

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons

Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025

Max. Size: 1' 4"

Color Form: Black, Blue, Green, Yellow

Diet: Herbivore

Origin: Red Sea

Family: Acanthuridae

This fish is also known as the Sohal Surgeonfish and Red Sea Clown Surgeon, and less commonly the Zebra Surgeon, Majestic Tang, Majestic Surgeon, Zebra Tang, and Arabian Tang. It is found in the Red Sea, to the Arabian Gulf, and the Arabian Sea, sometimes in large aggregations, but usually in solitude. These fish commonly inhabit the reef plateau just before the slope, and are generally found in depths of less than 20 meters (65'). Wild Sohal Tang specimens can grow to 16 inches; in an aquarium the adults will normally grow from 7 to 10 inches.

The Sohal Tang is hardy, but susceptible to a disease known as Lateral Line erosion, or Hole in the Head. A vegetarian diet high in vitamins, especially beta-carotene can aid in the prevention of development of the disease. Stray voltages are also thought to contribute to this disease and the grounding probe may be beneficial.

Sohal Tangs are very aggressive. They should not be kept with other Tangs or Wrasse species. They tend to be well-behaved with old tank mates, but try to kill any new additions. They are only suited for large aquariums with other aggressive fish. They do fairly well in very large reef systems with no other Tangs, and plenty of swimming room.

The Sohal Tangs are among the most prized fish for the aquarium hobby. The blue outline on the fins and the horizontal body striping render them quite striking. Because of its aggression factor and size, this fish should only be kept by an experienced aquarist with a large reef tank.