Whitebar Tang

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About Whitebar Tang

The Whitebar Tang is a striking surgeonfish recognised for its blue-grey to brown body, distinctive white facial band and bright yellow highlights around the fins and tail. Its clean colour contrast and active swimming behaviour make it an attractive addition to larger marine aquariums.

Whitebar Tangs are active algae grazers, spending much of their time browsing across live rock and aquarium surfaces. A mature aquarium with established algae growth, strong water movement and plenty of open swimming space is ideal.

They are generally peaceful towards most community fish but can become territorial towards other surgeonfish, particularly similar-shaped tangs. Good aquascaping with separate territories and plenty of swimming room can help minimise aggression.

A varied herbivorous diet should include nori, marine algae, Spirulina-based foods and quality herbivore pellets.

Whitebar Tangs are generally reef safe and will normally leave corals alone.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Acanthurus leucopareius
Common Name: Whitebar Tang / Whitebar Surgeonfish
Family: Acanthuridae
Type: Marine Fish / Surgeonfish / Tang
Adult Size: Approximately 20–22 cm
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Care Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Minimum Aquarium: 450 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Herbivore
Tank Level: All Levels
Reef Safe: Yes
Suitable For: Large mature reef aquariums and experienced marine aquarists

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Whitebar Tangs reef safe?

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

How big does a Whitebar Tang get?

They can reach approximately 20–22 cm, so plenty of swimming space is required as they mature.

What do Whitebar Tangs eat?

They are primarily herbivorous. Offer regular nori, marine algae, Spirulina-based foods and quality herbivore pellets, alongside natural algae growth on mature live rock.

Can Whitebar Tangs be kept with other tangs?

They can become territorial towards other surgeonfish, particularly similarly shaped species. A large aquarium and careful selection of tank mates are recommended.

Do Whitebar Tangs need live rock?

Yes. Mature live rock provides natural algae and biofilm for grazing, as well as shelter and exploration areas.

Common Mistakes

Keeping one in an undersized aquarium
Whitebar Tangs are active swimmers and require plenty of open water.

Not providing enough algae-based food
Regular marine algae and nori are important for maintaining health and body condition.

Keeping incompatible tangs together
Territorial behaviour can develop between surgeonfish.

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

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