Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum)

Why it is a Collector's Vault fish: The Gem Tang lives only in the western Indian Ocean, around Mauritius, Réunion, Madagascar, Mozambique and South Africa. South Africa does not allow it to be exported for the trade, and the other countries do not have enough fish to make collection worthwhile, so nearly every Gem Tang comes from Mauritius. It has never been bred in captivity. Its jet-black body covered in white spots and bright yellow tail make it one of the most famous fish in the hobby.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
• Origin: Western Indian Ocean
• Care level: Expert
• Reef safe: Yes
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Max size: 8 inches
• Minimum aquarium: 180 gallons
• Diet: Herbivore
• Water: 72-78°F, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025

Compatibility

• Good tankmates: Angelfish, wrasses, anthias and tangs from other genera
• Avoid: Other Zebrasoma tangs; never keep two Gem Tangs together

Care Notes

• Needs at least 180 gallons with plenty of swimming room, strong flow and live rock to graze
• Reef safe, but often aggressive toward other tangs; keep only one
• Prone to ich and velvet, which is why we condition every tang before sale
• Feed marine algae such as nori daily, plus mysis and quality pellets

How to Buy, Pickup & Shipping

• Conditioned only (7-Day Hold): all of our tangs are conditioned before sale. Tangs are especially prone to ich and other parasites after shipping, so every tang completes our mandatory conditioning period. Your fish usually reaches us the day after you order, and we hold it for at least 7 days to inspect it, make sure it is eating and check for any sign of disease before it goes home with you. Covered by our Collector's Vault Guarantee.
• Store pickup in Sugar Land, or $100 flat-rate FedEx Priority Overnight shipping within the continental U.S. (ships Monday through Thursday; weather holds as needed).
• Full terms: Collector's Vault Shipping & Guarantee.