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Basics

Scientific Name: Acanthurus sohal

Family: Acanthuridae

Origin: Red Sea

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Lifespan: 5-10 years
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Maximum Size: 1'4" (16")
• Diet: Herbivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons

Overview

The Sohal Tang is also known as the Sohal Surgeonfish. Their base color is light to medium grey and their midsection and head is covered with black pigmentation striped with white. Their fins are black and edged with a bright blue hue, aside from the pectoral fins which are bright yellow in color. A horizontal yellow or orange line runs along the base of their tail before the fin begins.

They are a particularly aggressive species of tang and will not tolerate other tangs or surgeonfish. If they are added last, they will behave with the tankmates that were there before them, but new additions afterwards may be harassed relentlessly. A large tank is necessary for them to have an adequate amount of territory if they are to be housed with other fish. They will do well in a reef tank. 

While they will eat meaty foods meant for their tankmates, their diet should consist primarily of vegetable matter. They should always have seaweed to pick at and can be fed high quality herbivore preparations.