Chocolate Tang

Chocolate Tang

Acanthurus pyroferus

Saltwater Tang Fish Out of stock
Currently Out of Stock

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Pricing & Availability

Medium
Sub-Adult
Out of stock
$85.00
Large
Adult
Out of stock
$100.00

Currently Out of Stock

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10"
Max Size
125g
Min Tank
Reef Safe
Easy
Care Level
Temperament
Peaceful
Diet
Herbivore
Origin
Indo-Pacific

Description

The Chocolate Tang (Acanthurus pyroferus) is a beautiful and fascinating species known for its ability to mimic angelfish as a juvenile — often resembling Centropyge species like the Lemonpeel or Herald’s Angelfish. As it matures, it transitions to a rich brown or “chocolate” coloration with striking orange and blue highlights near the pectoral fins and tail base.

Active, intelligent, and constantly grazing, this tang brings both movement and color to large reef systems. While mostly peaceful, it can be territorial toward other tangs, especially those from the Acanthurus genus.

Care Requirements

Provide a large aquarium (125+ gallons) with ample live rock for grazing, open swimming areas, and strong water movement. Chocolate Tangs require pristine water conditions and a diet rich in marine-based algae.
They do best in established reef tanks with stable parameters and frequent feedings to prevent aggression or coral picking.

Diet & Feeding

The Chocolate Tang is a dedicated grazer that thrives on a varied herbivorous diet:

  • Dried seaweed (nori) clipped daily
  • Spirulina-based pellets or flakes
  • Fresh macroalgae (Gracilaria, Ulva, etc.)
  • Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for protein variety

Regular feedings multiple times a day help reduce stress and territorial behavior.