Zebrasoma scopas

Datasheet

General Description

The Brown Scopas Tang, scientifically known as Zebrasoma scopas, belongs to the Acanthuridae family. These surgeonfish are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to the Tuamoto Islands. Zebrasoma species are recognized for their sail-like fins, which they display when threatened. These fish primarily feed on various types of algae, making them ideal for coral aquariums as natural algae controllers.

Aquarium Suitability

The Brown Scopas Tang is suitable for most aquariums and is recommended for reef setups due to being reef-safe. They require a minimum tank size of 250 litres, plenty of swimming space, and hiding spots, especially when first introduced to a new environment. These fish have an average hardiness level and thrive in well-established tanks with ample algae growth for grazing.

Demands

Zebrasoma scopas are herbivores and predominantly feed on small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. They have specific dietary requirements, needing algae-based foods such as seaweed or Nori to maintain a healthy immune system. It's crucial to provide a varied diet that includes macroalgae and microalgae like spirulina.

Care and Hardiness

The Brown Scopas Tang possesses an average level of hardiness and requires stable water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12. These fish should be kept in a well-maintained tank to prevent stress and maintain their overall well-being.

Reef Suitability

This species is always reef-safe and rarely impacts corals or invertebrates. When housed in a reef aquarium, they contribute positively by controlling algae growth and adding vibrancy to the underwater environment.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up a tank for Zebrasoma scopas, ensure it has adequate space for swimming, hiding spots, and a sufficient algae supply on rocks for grazing. An established aquarium with consistent water parameters that mimic their natural habitat and supplemental feeding with algae-rich foods is essential for their health.

Behaviour

These surgeonfish are generally peaceful towards other fish species but may exhibit aggression towards similar species or when establishing a hierarchy in multi-species tanks. It is advisable to introduce the most aggressive species last to prevent conflicts.

Feeding and Diet

The Brown Scopas Tang is primarily herbivorous and requires a diet rich in algae-based foods. Feeding them a variety of foods, including macroalgae like seaweed and microalgae such as spirulina, helps maintain their health and vitality.

Dimorphism

This species may exhibit dimorphism, but further details on captive reproduction are not provided in the available information.

Habitat and Distribution

These fish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to southern Japan. They inhabit areas with rich algae growth, such as coral reefs, where they contribute to the ecosystem by controlling algae levels and adding to the biodiversity of the marine habitat.