Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
• Maximum Size: Up to 12 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)

The Blue Hippo Tang, the Regal Tang, or Palette Surgeonfish, is popular among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to care for this species in your aquarium successfully.

Habitat

The Blue Hippo Tang is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits coral reefs and lagoons, preferring areas with rich coral growth and ample hiding places.

Reef Safe

The Blue Hippo Tang is generally considered reef-safe. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to a reef tank with delicate corals or invertebrates, as it may nip at their polyps or tentacles.

Size

The Blue Hippo Tang can grow up to 12 inches long, making it a relatively large fish for a home aquarium. It is important to provide a tank with sufficient swimming space to accommodate its size.

Temperament

The Blue Hippo Tang is known for its peaceful temperament. It usually gets along well with other fish species, but aggression may occur if the tank is too small or if there is competition for food or territory.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no visible differences between male and female Blue Hippo Tangs. They exhibit similar coloration and body shape.

Lifespan

The Blue Hippo Tang has a lifespan of around 8 to 12 years in captivity, depending on the quality of care provided.

Diet in Aquariums

The Blue Hippo Tang is a herbivorous fish that primarily feeds on algae in the wild. In an aquarium, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine-based flakes, pellets, and frozen or fresh vegetables such as seaweed, spinach, and lettuce.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for a Blue Hippo Tang, it is important to provide ample hiding places and open swimming areas. Live rock formations with caves and crevices mimic its natural habitat and offer shelter. Additionally, macroalgae or live plants can provide a grazing area for the tang.

Captive Bred Availability

The Blue Hippo Tang is rarely available as a captive-bred specimen. Most individuals found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. However, efforts are being made to develop successful breeding programs for this species.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Blue Hippo Tang can be compatible with various tankmates, but caution should be exercised when selecting companions. Avoid housing it with aggressive or territorial fish that may bully or stress the tang. Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices:

1. Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum): Both species have similar care requirements and peaceful temperaments.
2. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris): These clownfish are known for their compatibility with a wide range of tank mates.
3. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica): This small, peaceful fish can add color and activity to the aquarium.
4. Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni): These fish are known for their peaceful nature and unique appearance.
5. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis): These shrimp can help maintain the cleanliness of the aquarium and provide a symbiotic relationship with the tang.

Other Common Names

The Blue Hippo Tang is also commonly known as the Regal Tang or Palette Surgeonfish.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

Reefs4Less.com is a reputable online retailer that specializes in providing high-quality saltwater aquarium livestock and supplies. They offer a wide selection of fish, corals, and invertebrates, including the Blue Hippo Tang. With their commitment to customer satisfaction and expertise in the field, Reefs4Less.com is a reliable choice for your aquarium needs.

Popular Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I feed my Blue Hippo Tang?

A: It is recommended to feed your Blue Hippo Tang small amounts of food multiple times a day to mimic its natural grazing behavior.

Q: Can I keep multiple Blue Hippo Tangs in the same tank?

A: Keeping multiple Blue Hippo Tangs in the same tank is generally not recommended, as they may exhibit territorial behavior and aggression towards each other.

Q: Do Blue Hippo Tangs require a specific lighting setup?

A: Blue Hippo Tangs do not have specific lighting requirements. However, providing a well-lit aquarium with appropriate spectrum and intensity can enhance their coloration and overall health.

Q: How can I prevent diseases in my Blue Hippo Tang?

A: Maintaining excellent water quality, providing a balanced diet, and quarantining new additions before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent diseases in Blue Hippo Tangs.

Q: Can I keep a Blue Hippo Tang in a smaller tank than the recommended minimum tank size?

A: It is not recommended to keep a Blue Hippo Tang in a tank smaller than the recommended minimum size, as it may lead to stress, stunted growth, and health problems.