Description
Scientific Name: Acanthurus triostegus
Common Name: Convict Tang (also called Convict Surgeonfish)
Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
Life Expectancy: 5–10 years in captivity (longer in the wild with ideal conditions)
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters)
Larger if kept in a group
Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
Temperament:
Generally peaceful and reef-safe
Can become territorial with similar species
Best kept either singly or in odd-numbered groups (3 or more) to reduce aggression
Diet & Nutrition
Primarily herbivorous
In the wild: grazes on algae growing on rocks and reefs
In captivity, offer:
Nori (dried seaweed)
Spirulina-enriched flakes or pellets
Vegetable-based frozen foods
