Sohal Tang, Small

Introduction: • Common Names: Sohal Tang, Red Sea Clown Surgeonfish • Natural Habitat: Native to the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, commonly found in coral reefs and rocky coastal areas. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Striking body with alternating horizontal blue and white stripes and a bold orange line at the base of the tail. • Size: Grows up to 16 inches (40 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Typically lives up to 10-15 years with proper care. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Minimum of 180 gallons, with plenty of swimming space due to its active and territorial nature. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C). o pH: 8.1-8.4. o Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025. • Aquascaping: Provide open areas for swimming and ample live rock for grazing and hiding; needs space to establish territory. Diet: • Primary Diet: Herbivorous; primarily grazes on algae in the wild. • Supplemental Feeding: Offer a variety of marine algae, seaweed, and spirulina-based flakes or pellets. Supplement with occasional vegetable treats like blanched zucchini or lettuce. • Feeding Frequency: Feed multiple times daily to support active metabolism and encourage natural grazing behavior. Compatibility: • Temperament: Territorial, especially with other tangs; may show aggression if space is limited. • Suitable Tank Mates: Best with larger, robust fish like angelfish, certain wrasses, and large reef-safe species. • Incompatibilities: Avoid other tangs or similarly shaped fish unless kept in a very large tank with ample hiding spots. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate to advanced; requires stable water quality and a large, well-maintained tank. • Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of ich or other parasites, as it can be sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Rarely bred in home aquariums due to size and specific spawning requirements. • Spawning: Known to spawn in the wild by releasing eggs into open water, though conditions are difficult to replicate in captivity. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: High demand among saltwater enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and active behavior. • Pricing: Often on the higher end due to its size, care requirements, and limited availability from the Red Sea region. Conclusion: The Sohal Tang is a visually striking and energetic fish, ideal for large marine aquariums. Its beauty and bold personality make it a prized species for experienced aquarists who can provide the space and care it requires to thrive.