Powder Blue Surgeonfish Marine (6 cm) is a vibrant, reef-safe tang with stunning blue coloration and active grazing behavior, perfect for reef and community tanks.

Powder Blue Surgeonfish Marine (6 cm) – Detailed Product Description

• General Overview

  • The Powder Blue Surgeonfish (Acanthurus leucosternon) is a striking marine fish recognized for its brilliant powder-blue body, black face mask, and yellow dorsal fin.

  • Juveniles at 6 cm are perfect for marine aquariums and reef tanks, providing color, activity, and algae control.

  • Hardy and reef-safe with proper care, this species is ideal for intermediate marine hobbyists seeking a visually captivating centerpiece.

  • Its grazing behavior helps manage algae growth and maintain a natural balance in reef aquariums.

• Appearance & Coloration

  • Powder-blue body with a black face mask and a bright yellow dorsal fin.

  • White ventral area and sharp, scalpel-like caudal spine characteristic of surgeonfish.

  • Juveniles are smaller at 6 cm but display the iconic coloration that intensifies with age.

  • Oval, laterally compressed body with tall dorsal and anal fins for graceful swimming.

  • Adds striking contrast against live rock, coral, and sandy substrates in aquariums.

• Temperament & Behavior

  • Semi-aggressive but generally peaceful with non-conspecifics in large tanks.

  • Can establish territories, especially when housed with other surgeonfish species.

  • Active mid- to upper-level swimmer, constantly grazing on algae and biofilm.

  • Reef-safe and non-destructive to corals or invertebrates.

  • Juveniles may initially hide but become more active once acclimated.

• Adult Size & Lifespan

  • Adult size: 20–23 cm

  • Juveniles at 6 cm will grow steadily under proper diet and stable water conditions.

  • Lifespan ranges 10–15 years in well-maintained aquariums.

  • Growth is moderate; coloration and fin development intensify with maturity.

• Tank Size & Aquarium Setup

  • Minimum tank size: 250 liters (65 gallons) for juveniles; larger recommended for adults.

  • Open swimming areas with live rock for grazing and shelter.

  • Moderate to strong water flow simulates reef currents and encourages natural behavior.

  • Reef-compatible tank recommended; secure lids advised as tangs can jump.

  • Provide ample grazing surfaces such as live rock and algae-covered structures.

• Water Conditions (Marine Parameters)

  • Temperature: 24–27 °C

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

  • Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

  • Nitrate: Below 20 ppm

  • Stable water parameters are crucial for optimal health, coloration, and longevity.

  • Weekly water changes of 10–20% recommended to maintain water quality.

• Feeding Habit & Diet

  • Herbivorous grazing fish, primarily feeding on algae.

  • Recommended diet includes:

    • Nori or dried seaweed sheets

    • Algae-based flakes or pellets

    • Spirulina-enriched foods

    • Occasional supplementary meaty foods (e.g., mysis shrimp)

  • Feed 2–3 times daily; encourage continuous grazing for healthy growth and vibrant color.

• Tank Mates & Compatibility

  • Compatible with peaceful or semi-aggressive marine species, such as:

    • Wrasses

    • Gobies

    • Blennies

    • Clownfish

    • Other non-territorial tangs (avoid overcrowding with conspecifics)

  • Reef-safe with corals, clams, and most invertebrates.

  • Avoid overly aggressive fish that may stress juveniles or adults.

• Care Level & Maintenance

  • Care level: Intermediate

  • Requires stable water, sufficient space, and a diet rich in algae.

  • Suitable for hobbyists with some experience maintaining marine or reef aquariums.

  • Juveniles are hardy but benefit from careful acclimation and a low-stress introduction.

• Health & Special Notes

  • Sensitive to poor water quality or sudden environmental changes.

  • Juveniles may hide initially but become more active with proper care.

  • Avoid copper-based medications; sharp caudal spine can injure tank mates if stressed.

  • Provide ample live rock and algae surfaces to encourage natural grazing behavior.

• Why Choose Powder Blue Surgeonfish Marine (6 cm)?

  • Iconic powder-blue coloration with yellow dorsal fin

  • Active, reef-safe, and hardy marine fish

  • Excellent algae grazer for reef tanks

  • Adds movement, color, and personality to any aquarium

  • Long-lived and visually captivating centerpiece

The Powder Blue Surgeonfish Marine (6 cm) is a stunning, hardy, and reef-compatible tang that enhances the aesthetics and ecological balance of any marine aquarium. With stable water parameters, proper diet, and compatible tank mates, this juvenile tang will thrive and become a vibrant focal point in your reef or community setup.