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Mimic Tang
Acanthurus pyroferus
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Acanthuriformes›Acanthuridae
📍 Indo-Pacific
Remarkable tang whose juveniles precisely mimic dwarf angelfish species (Centropyge eibli or C. flavissima) in both colour and behaviour. Adults transition to a drab brown-orange. A fascinating example of protective mimicry.
Care Guide
Diet
Mimic tangs are herbivorous and require a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter. Feed high-quality dried seaweed (nori), spirulina flakes, and algae-based pellets daily, supplemented 2-3 times weekly with frozen herbivorous preparations. They will graze on live algae in the tank, which should be encouraged as a natural food source.
Behavior
Juveniles are remarkably shy and reclusive, mimicking dwarf angelfish behavior to avoid predation—they hide among corals and rockwork. Adults become more active and bold, though they retain a semi-aggressive temperament and may harass smaller fish or peaceful species. They are primarily mid-water swimmers but spend considerable time foraging along the substrate and rock surfaces.
Breeding
Breeding Mimic tangs in captivity is extremely rare and has not been reliably documented in home aquariums. They are broadcast spawners that require very large systems with specific environmental triggers. Captive breeding is not recommended for hobbyists.
Tank Mates
Similar peaceful temperament and compatible water parameters; may coexist without aggression
Herbivorous bottom-dweller with minimal interaction; shares algae-grazing niche without direct competition
Peaceful bottom-dweller that occupies different water column; minimal territorial overlap
May be nipped at by semi-aggressive adults; best added when tang is smaller
Both are tangs with similar dietary needs; monitor for territorial aggression as they mature
Common Diseases
Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against rocks, lethargy
Increase water temperature to 28-29°C, maintain excellent water quality, use copper-based treatments or hyposalinity therapy; quarantine infected fish
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin margins, progressive fin loss
Perform 25% water changes daily, improve water quality and reduce stress, use antibiotic treatments if bacterial; ensure adequate nutrition
Head and Lateral Line Erosion (HLLE)
Pitting or erosion on head and along lateral line, loss of flesh around eyes and snout
Improve diet with high-quality herbivorous foods, vitamin supplementation, and enhanced water quality; often related to poor nutrition or stress
Velvet Disease (Amyloodinium ocellatum)
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, scratching behavior, lethargy
Increase temperature to 28-29°C, reduce light exposure, use copper treatments or hyposalinity; quarantine and maintain pristine water conditions
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Quick Facts
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- diet
- herbivore/algae
- maxSize
- 10 inches
- salinity
- SG 1.020–1.025
- minTankSize
- 75 gallons
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)
Temperature
75–82°F
24–28°C