| Achilles Tang | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Acanthuridae |
| Genus: | Acanthurus |
| Species: | A. achilles |
| Binomial name | |
| Acanthurus achilles Shaw, 1803 |
|
Acanthurus achilles is a tropical fish with the common names Achilles Tang and Achilles surgeonfish.
Contents |
They are a medium surgeonfish reaching a maximum of 10in/25 cm at adulthood. Acanthurus achilles are black with striking orange and white lining along the fish's fins and tail. When the fish matures, a prominent orange drop shape develops on the caudal area terminating into a sharp spine.
The Achilles Tang is herbivorous, eating mostly benthic alae. They will also accept frozen and meaty foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp in captivity. As with all Surgeonfish, algae or similar vegetable matter should be included in their dietary intake to moderate aggression and regulate metabolic functions.
It is found in various reefs of Oceania, up to the islands of Hawaii and Pitcairn. The fish is also, although less commonly, found in the Mariana Islands and even some reefs in southern Mexico and Guatemala.
Unfortunately, the Achilles Tang has a poor survival rate when kept in captivity. They are not for the inexperienced aquarist. However, if you are a more experienced saltwater aquarist, you might think about keeping an Achilles. They are peaceful aquarium inhabitants and will rarely bother their tankmates. Just about the only exception is when kept with other Tangs/Surgeonfish, particularly of their own species. Then they will become aggressive towards the other Tang. They are reef-safe, and can be kept with any invertebrates. Possible tankmates include clownfish, Blennies, Gobies, Chromis, Butterflyfish, and small Lionfish.
Turbulent water flow and surface movement (either in the display aquarium or attached sump) is essential for Achilles health. Heavy surface movement brings water oxygen levels near saturation. Keeping an adult Achilles well fed can be a chore, with one adult easily consuming one 5"x5" sheet of pressed seaweed daily. Selcon-type products can be utilized several times a week to supplement their diet. A lowered reef temperature of 78F can also assist in keeping an Achilles fat. A standard reef temperature of 80-82F will raise the Achilles' metabolism to a point where adequate nutrition will be difficult. Introducing a specimen of about 5" is ideal, juveniles do not fare well (if they can even be found).