Mata Tang
Mata Tang
Mata Tang: Vibrant Elegance for Your Reef Aquarium
Meet the Mata Tang, a stunning and vibrant addition to any saltwater aquarium. Known for its strikingly beautiful blue body and flowing sail-like fins, the Mata Tang (Acanthurus mata) is a mesmerizing species that brings both color and elegance to your underwater world. Perfectly suited for dedicated reef aquarium hobbyists, this tang is not only captivating but also plays an important role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
**Care Level & Requirements**
- **Care Level:** Moderate
- **Temperament:** Semi-aggressive
- **Minimum Tank Size:** 120+ gallons
- **Diet:** Herbivore – primarily algae-based
- **Reef Safe:** Yes
The Mata Tang thrives in well-established aquariums with ample swimming space and plenty of hiding spots. A minimum tank size of 120 gallons is recommended to accommodate its active lifestyle. Maintaining optimal water conditions is crucial for the health of your Mata Tang, with a temperature range of 72-78°F, pH level of 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity between 1.020-1.025.
**Feeding & Diet**
As a natural grazer, the Mata Tang plays a pivotal role in algae control within your tank. Its diet should primarily consist of marine-based algae and seaweed, supplemented with high-quality flake or pellet foods designed for herbivorous fish. Regular feedings will ensure vibrant coloration and robust health.
**Compatibility & Behavior**
The Mata Tang is generally compatible with other peaceful reef inhabitants and is considered reef-safe. While it may exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards other tangs, providing ample space and hiding spots can help minimize aggression. They coexist well with a variety of invertebrates and fish species, making them a versatile and harmonious addition to your marine community.
**Why Choose the Mata Tang?**
- Striking blue coloration and flowing fins add a touch of elegance to any reef display.
- Natural algae grazer, contributing to a healthy and balanced aquarium ecosystem.
- Generally reef-safe and compatible with a wide range of tank mates.
Elevate your reef aquarium with the Mata Tang's beauty and functionality. This captivating species is sure to become a centerpiece in your aquatic environment, delighting both novice and experienced hobbyists alike.
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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