Yellow Fin Tang Acanthurus Nigricans

Description

Yellow Fin Tang Acanthurus Nigricans

The Gold Rim Tang, also known as the White Cheek Tang (Acanthurus nigricans), is a vibrant surgeonfish native to Indonesia. It has an oval-shaped body that is a deep brown to black color, with jet black dorsal and anal fins. The most distinctive feature is the yellow line that borders the dorsal and anal fins, as well as the reduced white cheek patch just under the eye (compared to the more extensive white cheek patch of the similar Powder Brown Tang). This species is primarily herbivorous, requiring a diet consisting largely of algae-based foods to maintain optimal health, coloration, and immune function. In the aquarium, they will consume various algae as well as vegetable-based flakes, frozen foods, and dried seaweed. Gold Rim Tangs are generally semi-aggressive and can be kept in reef aquariums, but may conflict with other similarly-shaped tang species. It’s best to introduce them to the tank at the same time as other tangs, or add them last, as they can be territorial. They require an established, minimum 125-gallon aquarium with plenty of rockwork and open swimming space. This species is moderately difficult to care for and is not recommended for beginners. Maintaining optimal water parameters, including a temperature of 72-78°F, pH of 8.1-8.4, and salinity of 1.020-1.025, is crucial for their long-term health. Proper quarantine and treatment is also important, as Gold Rim Tangs are susceptible to ich and other skin parasites. In summary, the Gold Rim Tang is a beautiful but challenging surgeonfish that requires an experienced aquarist and a well-established, spacious reef aquarium to thrive.