Dussumieri Tang

Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply

Shipping Allowed?

The Dussumieri Tang, also known as the Eyestripe Surgeonfish, is an impressive marine fish admired for its intricate blue markings, golden-yellow eye stripe and elegant, streamlined body. Its base colour ranges from olive-grey to tan, with fine wavy blue lines running along its body and distinctive yellow accents on its fins and tail. As it matures, its markings become increasingly striking. 

Native to the Indo-Pacific, this active surgeonfish spends much of its day swimming through open water and grazing on algae growing across rocks and reef surfaces. Its constant movement and distinctive appearance make it a spectacular addition to a suitably large marine aquarium.

Dussumieri Tangs are generally peaceful towards unrelated tank mates but can become territorial towards other tangs, particularly similar-shaped surgeonfish. Provide plenty of open swimming space, established live rock and strong, well-oxygenated water flow. Due to their substantial adult size, they are best suited to experienced marine aquarists with very large aquariums.

Although generally considered reef-safe, Dussumieri Tangs need a varied, algae-rich diet to maintain their health and natural grazing behaviour. Offer marine algae, dried nori, spirulina-based foods and quality herbivore pellets, supplemented with occasional meaty foods. Quarantine new arrivals and acclimate them carefully to reduce stress and the risk of introducing marine parasites. 

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Acanthurus dussumieri

• Common Names: Dussumieri Tang, Dussumier's Tang, Eyestripe Surgeonfish

• Origin: Indo-Pacific

• Care Level: Moderate to advanced

• Adult Size: Approximately 35–50 cm; potentially larger

• Aquarium Size: A very large aquarium; plan for at least 1,200–1,500 litres for long-term adult care

• Temperature: 24–27°C

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: Approximately 1.023–1.026 SG

• Diet: Primarily herbivorous

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, particularly towards other tangs

• Swimming Level: All levels; highly active open-water swimmer

• Reef Compatibility: Generally reef-safe

• Aquarium Type: Marine reef or fish-only system

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Dussumieri Tangs reef-safe?

Yes, they are generally considered reef-safe with corals and most ornamental invertebrates. They primarily graze on algae, although individual behaviour can vary.

2. How big do Dussumieri Tangs grow?

They can reach approximately 35–50 cm, making them one of the larger tangs commonly discussed in the aquarium trade. Plan for their adult size before purchasing.

3. What do Dussumieri Tangs eat?

Their diet should centre on marine algae, nori, spirulina and quality herbivore foods. Supplement with occasional meaty foods for variety.

4. Can Dussumieri Tangs live with other tangs?

They may show aggression towards other surgeonfish, especially similar-looking species. Keeping one per aquarium is generally the safest approach unless the system is exceptionally large and carefully stocked.

5. Do Dussumieri Tangs need strong water flow?

Yes. They are active swimmers that benefit from strong, turbulent circulation and high oxygen levels, alongside plenty of unobstructed swimming space.

6. Are Dussumieri Tangs suitable for beginners?

They are not ideal for beginners because of their eventual size, swimming requirements and sensitivity to stress and marine parasites. They are better suited to experienced marine aquarists.

Common Mistakes

• Keeping this large species in an aquarium that is too small.

• Underfeeding algae and other vegetable-based foods.

• Introducing it without appropriate quarantine.

• Combining it with competing tangs in restricted space.

• Providing insufficient swimming room or oxygenation.

• Handling the fish carelessly around its sharp tail-base spines.