Sohal Tang

Sohal Tang (Acanthurus sohal)

Overview

The Sohal Tang (Acanthurus sohal) is a striking and highly active surgeonfish known for its bold coloration and sharp body markings. It features a deep blue body with horizontal white stripes, bright orange accents on the fins, and prominent white spines near the tail. Native to the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean, the Sohal Tang is a powerful swimmer and an impressive centerpiece for large marine or reef aquariums.

This species is best suited for experienced aquarists due to its territorial and semi-aggressive nature. In the wild, it grazes extensively on algae, helping to maintain healthy reef ecosystems.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons (680 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: Provide open swimming areas, moderate to strong water flow, and live rock for grazing and hiding

Due to its high activity level, the Sohal Tang requires a large, well-maintained aquarium with excellent filtration and stable water quality.

Diet and Feeding

The Sohal Tang is primarily herbivorous but will accept occasional protein-rich foods. A varied diet helps maintain health, color, and natural grazing behavior:

• Dried seaweed (nori) or macroalgae sheets

• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

• Frozen herbivore blends

• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for supplemental protein

Feed multiple small portions daily. Regular access to algae promotes digestive health and reduces territorial aggression.

Temperament and Compatibility

The Sohal Tang is semi-aggressive and highly territorial, especially toward other tangs. It is best kept singly or in very large aquariums that allow separate territories for multiple tangs.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Larger semi-aggressive or robust species such as angelfish, wrasses, and tangs of different genera

• Avoid: Other tangs in smaller systems; slow-moving or timid fish may be stressed

Adding the Sohal Tang last to an established tank can help reduce territorial disputes.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

The Sohal Tang is reef safe and does not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. Its grazing helps manage algae growth in the aquarium, contributing to a healthy and balanced reef environment.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 40 cm (16 inches)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Advanced

• Natural Behavior: Active, fast swimmer, constant grazer, territorial

• Origin: Red Sea and western Indian Ocean

The Sohal Tang (Acanthurus sohal) is a bold and visually stunning species ideal for large, experienced aquarists. With ample swimming space, stable water conditions, and a diet rich in algae, it thrives as a long-lived, highly active, and dominant member of the aquarium community.