What size tank does a Blue Tang need?

A Blue Tang needs a minimum tank size of 75 gallons. A 125-gallon tank or larger is recommended for optimal health.

What fish can live with Blue Tang?

Compatible tank mates for Blue Tang include: . Always ensure adequate tank size and proper water parameters.

Blue Tang

Q: Is Blue Tang easy to care for?

Blue Tang has a moderate care level. Needs a LARGE tank — very active swimmer. Prone to ich — quarantine before adding. Not a beginner fish despite popularity.

Paracanthurus hepatus

Also known as: Regal Tang, Hippo Tang, Dory Fish, Palette Surgeonfish

🧂 Saltwater ⚡ Semi-aggressive 🟡 Moderate 🌿 Herbivore Reef Safe

The 'Dory' fish from Finding Nemo. Vivid royal blue body with a yellow tail and black palette marking.

Tank Size

75 gal

minimum (125+ preferred)

Temperature

74–82°F

23–28°C

pH Range

8–8.4

water acidity

Max Size

12"

30.5 cm

Lifespan

8–20 years

typical in captivity

Swim Level

All

preferred zone

Care Notes

Needs a LARGE tank — very active swimmer. Prone to ich — quarantine before adding. Not a beginner fish despite popularity.

Feeding

Nori seaweed (staple), marine pellets, and frozen mysis. Needs lots of vegetable matter.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Ocellaris Clownfish 3" True Percula Clownfish 3" Blue Green Chromis 3" Yellowtail Damselfish 2.5" Yellow Tang 8" Kole Tang 7" Clarkii Clownfish 5" Tomato Clownfish 5" Scopas Tang 8" Naso Tang 18" Convict Tang 8" Azure Damselfish 2.5"

Incompatible With

Maroon Clownfish 6" Blue Devil Damselfish 3" Powder Blue Tang 9" Achilles Tang 10" Purple Tang 10" Three Stripe Damselfish 3" Domino Damselfish 5" Springer's Damselfish 2" Four Stripe Damselfish 3" Jewel Damselfish 6" Clown Tang 15" Neon Goby 2"

Check Compatibility

Want to check if Blue Tang is compatible with a specific fish? Use our compatibility checker to build your complete tank.