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Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus japonicus)

The Powder Brown Tang is a stunning surgeonfish, prized for its deep brown body, contrasting bright yellow and white markings, and a signature blue trim along the dorsal and anal fins. Often confused with Acanthurus nigricans (the Whitecheek Tang), A. japonicus is the hardier of the two and adapts better to aquarium life when provided with proper care.

This species is an excellent algae grazer, helping to control nuisance algae in large aquariums. It thrives in a well-oxygenated tank with strong water movement and plenty of open swimming space. Due to its territorial nature, it’s best housed alone or with carefully chosen tank mates in larger setups.

Husbandry Tips:

• Acclimation: Requires a tank of at least 120 gallons with ample swimming space and live rock for grazing.
• Feeding: Herbivorous; thrives on a diet rich in marine algae, nori, spirulina, and high-quality pellets or flakes formulated for tangs.
• Tank Mates: Best suited for peaceful to semi-aggressive community tanks; avoid keeping with other tangs unless in very large systems.
• Water Quality: Requires stable, high-quality water parameters, strong filtration, and high oxygenation to prevent stress-related diseases like Ich.

Retail Appeal:

• Beautiful coloration and distinctive markings make it a sought-after tang.
• Hardier than similar species like the Whitecheek Tang (A. nigricans).
• Excellent algae grazer for large aquariums.

Stock the Powder Brown Tang for customers looking for an elegant, active, and algae-eating surgeonfish that thrives in well-maintained marine aquariums.