Convict Tang (Acanthurus triostegus)

The Convict Tang or Acanthurus triostegus, much like the Convict Cichlid, gets its name from the vertical stripes that this fish looks like it belongs in a prison. Convict Tangs have six of this vertical stripes that are black in color. Their white or silver bodies, with a bit of yellow really makes these stripes pop out and makes it a great addition to any aquarium.

Convict Tangs are not very big, only growing to about 8" in maximum length. They can live to about 7 years old, and are native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In the wild they are almost always found in schools, sometimes these groups can number into the thousands! In many places they are caught and used as food.

Also known as the Convict Sturgeonfish and Manini, these saltwater fish can be kept in an aquarium of 75 gallons or more with the following water conditions, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 and sg 1.020-1.025. They get a long well with other peaceful fish, but should not be housed with other species of Tangs. Multiple Convict Tangs can coexist together, but they should all be introduced to the tank at the same time for best results.

Convict Tangs can be bred in an aquarium, but it not an easy task because the fry are so very small and essentially just drift around the aquarium for months. They will often become victims of aquarium filters. If you are lucky enough to get these fish large enough, or simply buy one from a pet store, you should feed them a variety of foods. Plenty of meaty foods along with marine based seaweed and algae at least 3 times a week is recommended.