Purple Tang

Zebrasoma xanthurum

The purple tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum) is a longtime favourite in the saltwater aquarium hobby. Because it is reef-safe and indeed is a great algae-eater, the species is very commonly enjoyed in reef tanks. Many aquarists prize this fish for its high levels of physical activity and its lack of shyness (it almost never hides). Many other aquarists appreciate its vivid coloration and exotic body shape. Overall, it is a deep bluish-purple with darker speckles and yellow on its tail and pectoral fins. It is strongly laterally compressed with a longer snout (similar to its popular cousin the yellow tang). While not extremely aggressive, the purple tang is bold and may intimidate passive tankmates. It may also be fairly territorial against other tangs (especially of its own species). These captive-bred specimens are far easier and keep and much less likely to carry deadly parasites than their wild counterparts.