Gold Rim Powder Brown

Goldrim Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus nigricans)

Overview

The Goldrim Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus nigricans), also known as the Whitecheek Surgeonfish or Goldrim Tang, is a beautifully refined species valued for its elegant coloration and graceful swimming behavior. Its deep brown body is contrasted by a bright white patch behind the eye, a golden rim along the body edges, and a bold yellow dorsal fin with blue highlights.

Native to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, this tang is an active grazer and a striking centrepiece fish for larger, well-maintained marine aquariums. It is best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide stable, pristine water conditions and plenty of open swimming space.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (475 litres) or larger

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Open rockwork for grazing with ample swimming space and strong water flow

The Goldrim Powder Brown Tang requires a large, oxygen-rich system with excellent filtration and circulation. Stable water parameters and regular maintenance are essential for long-term success, as this species is sensitive to fluctuations in water quality.

Diet and Feeding

An herbivorous grazer by nature, the Goldrim Powder Brown Tang should be provided with a varied and algae-rich diet that supports both health and coloration. Suitable foods include:

• Dried seaweed (nori) or macroalgae sheets

• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

• Frozen herbivore blends or enriched brine shrimp

• Occasional mysis shrimp for added protein

Feed small amounts two to three times daily. Consistent access to algae promotes natural grazing behavior and helps prevent stress-related ailments.

Temperament and Compatibility

This species is semi-aggressive and may be territorial toward other tangs, especially those with similar body shape or feeding habits. It is best kept singly unless housed in a very large aquarium with ample swimming space and clear territorial boundaries.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Peaceful or semi-aggressive reef fish such as wrasses, butterflyfish, anthias, and clownfish

• Avoid: Other Acanthurus species or large aggressive tangs

Introducing the Goldrim Powder Brown Tang as one of the final additions to the aquarium can help reduce aggression.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

The Goldrim Powder Brown Tang is reef safe and does not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. It plays a beneficial role in the reef ecosystem by grazing on filamentous algae and helping to maintain a clean, balanced environment. Ensure adequate algae availability or supplement its diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 21 cm (8 inches)

• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Advanced

• Natural Behavior: Active swimmer, territorial grazer

• Origin: Indo-Pacific region, including reefs around the Philippines, Indonesia, and central Pacific islands

The Goldrim Powder Brown Tang is a stunning and graceful addition to large reef or marine aquariums. When provided with stable conditions, a spacious environment, and a nutritious herbivorous diet, it rewards aquarists with vibrant colouration, constant movement, and natural algae-grazing behavior that enhances both the beauty and balance of the aquarium.