Gem Tang
Gem Tang
**Gem Tang: A Rare Jewel for Your Reef Aquarium**
The Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum) is a breathtaking addition to any reef enthusiast's collection, known for its striking coloration and regal presence. With its deep, velvety black body adorned with a constellation of bright white spots, the Gem Tang resembles the night sky, bringing a touch of celestial beauty to your underwater haven.
**Care Requirements & Habitat**
- **Care Level:** Intermediate to Advanced
- **Water Parameters:** pH 8.1-8.4, Temperature 74-82°F, Salinity 1.020-1.025
- **Minimum Tank Size:** 180 gallons
The Gem Tang thrives in well-maintained aquariums with ample swimming space and live rock for grazing. As an active swimmer, it requires a spacious tank to explore and display its natural behaviors. Maintaining stable water conditions and providing a high-quality filtration system are crucial to the health of this stunning species.
**Diet & Feeding**
- **Diet:** Herbivore
- **Feeding Recommendations:** Offer a varied diet rich in marine-based algae and seaweed, supplemented with high-quality pellets and flakes. Regular feedings of nori or spirulina will ensure your Gem Tang remains vibrant and healthy.
**Compatibility & Community**
- **Temperament:** Semi-aggressive
- **Reef Safe:** Yes
The Gem Tang is generally reef-safe, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists with coral-dominated aquariums. While it may exhibit territorial behavior towards other tangs, particularly those with similar body shapes, it can coexist peacefully with a variety of other fish species when given ample space. Introducing the Gem Tang as one of the last inhabitants to your tank can help mitigate any potential aggression.
**Why Choose the Gem Tang?**
Enhance your reef aquarium with the exquisite beauty and lively presence of the Gem Tang. This rare and captivating fish not only contributes to your tank's aesthetic appeal but also engages in natural grazing behaviors that help maintain a healthy ecosystem. Its celestial appearance and dynamic nature make the Gem Tang a true showstopper in any marine collection.
Elevate your aquatic environment with the unparalleled elegance of the Gem Tang—a true jewel in the world of reef aquariums.
Feeding & Diet
Feeding & Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, the Pithos Crab will scavenge detritus, uneaten food, and algae — making it a natural cleanup crew member. Supplement with small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or pellets 2–3x per week if natural food sources are limited.
Care & Water Parameters
Care & Water Parameters
The Pithos Crab thrives in stable, well-maintained reef conditions. Target parameters: temperature 72–78°F, salinity 1.025–1.026 SG, pH 8.1–8.4, and alkalinity 8–12 dKH. A mature, established tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Generally considered reef-safe. The Pithos Crab coexists well with most corals and peaceful fish. Use caution with very small invertebrates or slow-moving tankmates. Provide ample rockwork and hiding spots to reduce territorial behavior.
Size & Growth
Size & Growth
Pithos Crabs are typically shipped at 0.5–1.5 inches. They are slow-growing and generally remain small, making them well-suited for nano and mid-size reef systems.
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
All livestock ships with heat or cold packs as needed and is packaged for safe transit. We stand behind a live arrival guarantee — if your animal arrives DOA, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with a clear photo. See our full DOA policy for claim details.
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