Vlamingii Tang

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About Vlamingii Tang

The Vlamingii Tang, also known as the Vlaming's Unicornfish, is a spectacular large surgeonfish recognised for its blue-grey body, electric blue facial markings and vivid blue highlights across the fins and tail. Mature males can develop an elongated horn-like projection from the forehead and more intense colouration.

This is a large, active and powerful swimmer that requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of open swimming room. Vlamingii Tangs spend much of their day cruising through the water column and grazing on algae growing across rockwork.

They are generally peaceful towards most appropriately sized community fish, although they can become territorial towards other surgeonfish, particularly similar-shaped species.

A varied herbivorous diet is essential, with regular nori, marine algae, Spirulina and quality herbivore foods. They are generally considered reef safe and are excellent algae grazers for large established reef systems.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Naso vlamingii
Common Name: Vlamingii Tang / Vlaming's Unicornfish
Family: Acanthuridae
Type: Marine Fish / Surgeonfish / Unicornfish
Adult Size: Approximately 50–60 cm
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive
Care Level: Advanced
Minimum Aquarium: 800 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Herbivore / Omnivore
Tank Level: All Levels
Reef Safe: Yes
Suitable For: Very large mature reef aquariums and spacious marine systems

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Vlamingii Tang get?

Vlamingii Tangs can reach approximately 50–60 cm, making them a very large aquarium fish. Their adult size should be carefully considered before purchasing a juvenile.

Are Vlamingii Tangs reef safe?

Yes. They are generally considered reef safe and are excellent algae grazers for large established reef aquariums.

What do Vlamingii Tangs eat?

They primarily graze on algae and other plant material. Offer regular nori, marine algae, Spirulina-based foods and quality herbivore pellets, supplemented by natural algae growth.

Are Vlamingii Tangs aggressive?

They are generally less aggressive than many Acanthurus tangs, but they can become territorial towards other surgeonfish.

Do Vlamingii Tangs need a large aquarium?

Absolutely. They are extremely active swimmers and can reach around 60 cm, making them suitable only for very large systems.

Common Mistakes

Buying a juvenile without planning for its adult size
Vlamingii Tangs eventually become very large fish.

Keeping one in an undersized aquarium
They require extensive open swimming space and should not be restricted to a small display.

Not providing enough algae-based food
Regular marine algae and nori are important for long-term health.

Keeping incompatible tangs together
Territorial behaviour can develop between surgeonfish.

Adding one to an immature aquarium
Established rockwork provides valuable natural grazing opportunities.

Ignoring the caudal spines
Like other surgeonfish, Vlamingii Tangs have sharp spines near the tail that can cause injury when handling or catching the fish.