Tang for a 57 gallon tank

[jamesm]

I just purchased a 57 gallon Ocean Blue rimlees tank. It is going to replace the 34 gallon rimless tank I have now. I would like to add a Tang to the tank but I am concerned about the size of the tank. I know Tangs need room to swim. I have a 75 gallon fish only tank with a Yellow Tang in it and sooner or later I will have to give him to somebody with a bigger tank. Any suggestions?

 

[Adam Baggett]

You are right to be concerned and you are correct Tangs need space. I would not go any lower than a 75gal for any Tang. I have a 75gal and just 1 Yellow Tang in it (With a few other fish) and I make sure I feed nori every other day for him and I am sure there is not enough for him to eat otherwise. A 57gal is simply too small.

 

[jamesm]

Any suggestions for a fish for that size tank. I have two black Oscelarous Clowns, one spotted Manadarin, one cleanser shrimp, and two peppermint shrimps in the tank that is getting replaced. Need one fish which needs to be the jewel of the tank. Tank will have SPS and LPS corals in it.

 

[TJ's Reef]

As stated above, long term not a great choice but for a short 2-3 year period if purchasing a small/juvenile Bristletooth family Tang like Kole or Tomini would be fine IMHO. The possible down side is that they can become a bit pugnacious similar to a 6-Line Wrasse in smaller territories. Zebrasoma and Acanthurus families are most definitely out, even short term for their health/well being as well as potential tank mates.

Cheers, Todd

 

[TJ's Reef]

Any suggestions for a fish for that size tank. I have two black Oscelarous Clowns, one spotted Manadarin, one cleanser shrimp, and two peppermint shrimps in the tank that is getting replaced. Need one fish which needs to be the jewel of the tank. Tank will have SPS and LPS corals in it.

If the tank is well covered and you have the ability to feed at least 2-3 times a day look at getting a single male Flasher or Fairy Wrasse as 'that 'Jewel'

Cheers, Todd

 

[Adam Baggett]

Well I agree with Todd but you could but a Flame Angel as long as you keep up with its feeding. Small amounts often... Or a Purple Firefish Goby perhaps some kind of Dwarf Angel but only one, with a few other fish.

 

[JMMJ13902]

It's depending where you getting the fish...I've had a purple tang large size on my 57gal rimless for 5+ years and he's healthy. If a fish was always in a smaller tank to start with then they will get use to a smaller environment. But I suggest to put one kind of tang you like so pick one and stick with it.

Here is my 57gal rimless with a purple tang on the bottom center. He's been in there for many years.

 

[3dees]

I have a 120 gal. (48x24x24) tank. as much as I love tangs, I wont put one In my tank. too much trouble with aggression and Ich. much less trouble in large tanks.
.

 

[jamesm]

I have a Yellow Tang in my 75 gallon. He is a very healthy fish with great color. He is aggressive. Even for a Tang. I have a medium size Aus Harlequin Tusk and he bully's him around. I had to take him out of the tank and put him in a quarantine just to give the tusk a break. I took him out of timeout and the Tusk stands up to him now.