Zebrasoma flavescens
The Lavender Tang, *Zebrasoma flavescens*, is a stunning and highly desirable surgeonfish known for its vibrant lavender to purple coloration. This captivating hue intensifies with maturity and can vary slightly depending on the individual and its environment. Its sleek, disc-shaped body and pointed snout are characteristic of the *Zebrasoma* genus.
A minimum tank size of 180 gallons is recommended for the Lavender Tang due to its active swimming nature and potential adult size. This species requires ample space to roam and graze. They are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit coral reefs and lagoons.
The Lavender Tang is considered an advanced-level fish for the home aquarium. They require excellent water quality, a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for grazing, and a varied diet. While they will consume meaty foods, a significant portion of their diet should consist of marine algae and high-quality vegetable matter. Offering seaweed on a clip regularly is essential for their health and to prevent lateral line erosion. They can be prone to ich and other parasitic infections, so careful acclimation and monitoring are crucial. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be territorial towards other tangs, especially those of similar shape or color. Introducing them as the last fish in the tank can help minimize aggression. They typically reach a maximum size of around 8 inches in captivity.
