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Atlantis Coral Reef Supply

Orange Shoulder Tang Juv. SM

Orange Shoulder Tang Juv. SM

$130.00 USD
$130.00 USD
Sale Sold out
The Orange Shoulder Tang (Acanthurus olivaceus), also known as the orange-band surgeonfish, is a highly-prized marine aquarium fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. It is famous for its drastic color transformation as it matures from a solid yellow juvenile into a two-toned gray adult featuring a vibrant orange shoulder stripe. It is a functional, reef-safe algae grazer that requires a large aquarium due to its active nature and significant adult size. 

Profile Overview
  • Scientific Name: Acanthurus olivaceus
  • Care Level: Moderate
  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive (peaceful overall, but territorial toward similar tang shapes)
  • Maximum Size: 12 to 14 inches
  • Lifespan: 10 to 15+ years
  • Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe 

Color Metamorphosis
  • Juvenile Stage: Displays a bright, uniform yellow body often trimmed with a subtle blue fringe on the fins.
  • Adult Stage: Transitions into a two-toned bicolored appearance. The front half turns light gray/tan, while the back half darkens into a deep gray-blue or brown.
  • The "Shoulder" Patch: A bold, horizontal orange stripe develops right behind the gill cover, encased by a dark blue-gray outline.  

Aquarium Requirements
  • Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons is mandatory for long-term health, as they are fast, powerful swimmers that need substantial open swimming room.
  • Water Parameters:
    • Temperature: 72–78°F
    • Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
    • pH: 8.1–8.4
    • dKH: 8–12
  • Aquascape: Requires ample open water for swimming alongside plenty of mature live rock for grazing and hiding places. 

Diet and Nutrition
While they will consume meaty aquarium foods, they are primary herbivores. To strengthen their immune systems and prevent Head and Lateral Line Erosion (HLLE), provide a specialized herbivore diet: 
  • Dried marine seaweed (Nori) offered on a regular basis.
  • Spirulina-based flakes or pellets.
  • Natural live rock biofilm for constant daily grazing. 

Temperament and Compatibility
  • Community: Generally peaceful and mixes well with clownfish, wrasses, angelfish, and large gobies.
  • Other Tangs: They can become highly territorial toward similarly shaped Acanthurus species. For best results, keep only one Orange Shoulder Tang per tank unless the system is exceptionally large.
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