Half Black Mimic Tang
Acanthurus chronixis
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Stock | 2.25" or smaller - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $112.99.$59.99Current price is: $59.99. | Email me | |
| Out of Stock | 3.5 - 4.75" - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $186.99.$97.99Current price is: $97.99. | Email me | |
| Out of Stock | 2.25 - 3.5" - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $147.99.$77.99Current price is: $77.99. | Email me | |
| Out of Stock | 2.25 - 3.5" - South Pacific | Original price was: $196.99.$103.99Current price is: $103.99. | Email me |
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| Care Level | Easy |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Algae Control |
| Diet Type | Herbivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 120 gallons |
| Max Size | 10 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
An active algae-grazing surgeonfish, the Half Black Mimic Tang (Acanthurus chronixis) spends the day cruising rockwork and open water, picking at film and short turf algae. Juveniles are known for a bold “mimic” look—often showing strong contrast with darker rear coloration that stands out in a reef aquarium.
What You’ll Observe:
- Long, steady laps across the tank, with frequent stops to graze the rocks
- Quick “inspection” behavior—moving from surface to surface looking for edible patches
- A consistent daytime routine: most active with the lights on, then settling into rockwork
- Confident feeding once settled, joining midwater feeding and then returning to grazing
Provide a 120+ gallon aquarium with open swimming room and plenty of live rock so it can graze and weave in and out of structure. Offer dried algae/nori regularly along with herbivore pellets and a mix of frozen foods to keep nutrition broad. With other tangs, a layout that creates multiple grazing lanes helps everyone stay occupied.
Is it normal for the “mimic” pattern to change as it grows?
Many hobbyists report the strongest mimic coloration in smaller juveniles, with pattern and contrast shifting as the fish matures.
Why does mine ignore nori at first?
Some individuals take time to recognize sheet algae; offering it daily on a clip and mixing in herbivore pellets often gets a more consistent response.
Can I keep it with other tangs if the tank is large?
Keepers commonly have the best results when there’s ample swim space and rockwork that breaks up sight lines so fish can choose their own routes.
How can I tell A. chronixis from the more common mimic tangs sold in stores?
Hobbyists frequently compare it to A. pyroferus “mimic tang” variants, checking the scientific name and watching how markings develop over time are the usual approaches.
What does it do all day in a reef tank?
Owners typically describe a “patrol and graze” routine—looping the tank, picking at surfaces, and returning to favorite rock zones.
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