Species Description…

Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigricans

Common Name: Whitecheek Tang or Gold-rimmed Tang

Species Group: Surgeonfish

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet Type: Herbivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 8 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 125 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific, including the Indian Ocean, Pacific Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef

Acanthurus Nigricans - The Whitecheek Tang

Acanthurus Nigricans (The Whitecheek Tang)

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, often found in coral reef environments with strong currents.
Recognized for its dark blue to black body, white cheek markings, and yellow highlights on the dorsal and tail fins.
A highly active and territorial species known for its strong swimming behavior.
Popular in marine aquariums due to its striking coloration and algae-grazing habits.

Herbivorous diet, primarily grazing on marine algae.
Requires a diet rich in plant-based foods, including seaweed, spirulina, and high-quality herbivore pellets.
Supplementing with fresh vegetables or dried seaweed supports optimal health.
Multiple small feedings per day help sustain their high energy levels and promote natural grazing behavior.

Commonly found in coral-rich areas with moderate to strong water flow.
Prefers stable water conditions with high oxygen levels.
Requires an aquarium with open swimming space and rock structures for grazing.
Thrives in environments that mimic its natural surroundings with turbulent water movement.

Optimal water temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C).
Ideal pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Highly susceptible to stress and marine ich; requires pristine water conditions.
Best introduced into a mature aquarium with excellent filtration and strong water flow.
Providing plenty of swimming space and hiding areas reduces stress and supports long-term health.

Can be aggressive, especially towards other tangs and fish with similar body shapes.
Compatible with peaceful, fast-moving species such as wrasses, anthias, and clownfish.
Should not be housed with slow-moving or timid fish that may struggle to compete for food.
Best kept as a single specimen unless in a very large aquarium with carefully selected tank mates.

Extremely active swimmer, often seen darting around the aquarium.
Spends much of its time grazing on algae from rocks and tank surfaces.
Can exhibit territorial behavior, especially in smaller aquariums.
Providing an environment with strong currents and abundant algae encourages natural behaviors.