Dussumieri Tang
A large surgeonfish in olive-brown with fine blue lines across the body, a bright yellow eye mask and a spotted tail. Substantial and impressive at maturity.
Feeding
Primarily herbivorous. Dried marine algae daily, spirulina foods and some frozen meaty food.
Compatibility
Reef safe but territorial toward other tangs. Needs very substantial swimming length.
Behaviour and personality
Cruises constantly and powerfully. Bold and quick to establish itself.
Before you buy
Reaches 40-50 cm, which is far larger than most tang buyers expect. It needs a genuinely enormous system. Quarantine before introduction, as Acanthurus tangs are ich-prone.
| Size at maturity | 40-50 cm |
|---|---|
| Feeding type | Herbivorous |
| Compatibility | Reef safe; territorial with other tangs |
| Behavior | Active, bold, establishes dominance quickly |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Dussumieri Tang when mature?
It reaches 40-50 cm in length at maturity.
Is the Dussumieri Tang safe for a reef tank?
Yes, it is reef safe, but it can be territorial toward other tangs.
What kind of diet does this fish require?
Primarily herbivorous, fed daily with dried marine algae, spirulina, and some frozen meaty food.
Dylan White –
This tang is a striking addition to a large reef tank. It’s very active and establishes its territory quickly. I feed it algae daily and a bit of spirulina. It’s not for small tanks—needs plenty of space and swimming room. Very impressive once it settles in.
James Sanderson –
A beautiful fish with vibrant coloration. I had to ensure my tank was large enough—over 200 gallons. It’s peaceful once it’s established, but it does show aggression toward other tangs. Feeding is straightforward with algae and spirulina.
Diana Miller –
The eye mask and tail spots are stunning. After quarantine, it adapted well and now swims constantly. I’m impressed by its size and bold nature. Definitely not for beginners or small setups.