Aquacultured coral, captive-bred marine life, and reef products proven in our own farm systems.

Blue Hippo Tang

Regular price $119.99


Pickup available at New Dawn Aquaculture

Usually ready in 1 hour

Captive-Bred Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), also known as the Regal Tang or Blue Tang, is one of the most recognizable fish in the marine aquarium hobby. Its deep blue body, bold black pattern, and bright yellow tail make it an unmistakable centerpiece in larger reef aquariums.

This is a 100% captive-bred Biota Blue Hippo Tang, offered in small batches. Captive-bred Blue Hippo Tangs are a major step forward for the hobby, giving reefkeepers access to this iconic species without relying on wild collection. They are also generally better adjusted to aquarium life and prepared foods than wild imports.

Why Aquarists Choose Blue Hippo Tangs

  • Iconic blue, black, and yellow coloration
  • Constant active swimming in the display
  • Reef-safe behavior in appropriately stocked systems
  • Captive-bred origin makes this a standout modern tang offering

Tank Size And Long-Term Fit

Blue Hippo Tangs are active open-water swimmers that need significant room as they grow. A 180-gallon aquarium is the minimum recommended size, and this species is best suited to larger, mature systems with strong filtration, stable water quality, and plenty of open swimming space.

Although smaller specimens can look manageable at first, this is not a small tang long term. Adults can reach roughly 8 to 12 inches, so buyers should plan for the fish it will become, not just the fish they receive.

Temperament And Compatibility

Blue Hippo Tangs are generally more peaceful than some other tang species, but they are still semi-aggressive surgeonfish. They may fight with other Blue Hippo Tangs or similar-shaped tangs, especially in crowded systems or where swimming space is limited.

In most aquariums, they do best with compatible tankmates and enough room to establish distance and routine. If mixing tangs, it should be done only in a large, well-planned system.

Feeding Guidance

Blue Hippo Tangs should receive a varied diet built around marine algae along with prepared foods and meaty supplements. Consistent feeding supports body condition, immune resilience, and calmer behavior.

  • Offer marine algae or seaweed regularly
  • Supplement with pellets and frozen foods
  • Feed consistently rather than sporadically
  • Provide mature rockwork and a stable routine

Helpful pairings from our store include New Dawn Nori Sheets for staple herbivore feeding and 1mm PE Pellets as part of a varied prepared diet.

Before You Order

This fish is best suited to reefkeepers with a large established aquarium, strong flow, dependable filtration, and a long-term plan for an active tang that grows into a substantial adult.

For delivery expectations and livestock coverage, review our shipping information and Arrive Alive Guarantee.

Our Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-78 °F)
  • Salinity: 1.026 SG, 35 ppt
  • PH: 8.1-8.4
  • Ammonia: 0 ppm
  • Nitrite: 0 ppb
  • Nitrate: 3-15ppm
  • Phosphate: 0.03-0.15 ppm
  • Alkalinity: 8 dKH
  • Calcium: 440 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1320 ppm

Acclimation

Temperature Match

Place the sealed bag containing the fish or invertebrate into your tank. Allow it to float for 15-20 minutes to gradually equalize the temperature between the bag and your aquarium. This step minimizes stress caused by sudden temperature changes.

Drip Acclimation

Set up a drip acclimation system by using airline tubing. Start a slow siphon from your tank into the bag or bucket containing the fish or invertebrate, allowing water to drip slowly. Acclimate over a period of approximately 30 minutes, gradually increasing the volume of tank water to match salinity and other water parameters.

Check Salinity

Use a refractometer to measure the salinity in the bag or acclimation container. Ensure the salinity matches your tank’s salinity before transferring the fish or invertebrate. Matching salinity helps reduce stress and prevents shock when introducing new animals.

Release Fish/Invert

Gently transfer the fish or invertebrate into the tank, avoiding netting them if possible to reduce physical stress. Allow the animal to swim out on its own if transferring from a container. Discard the acclimation water, as it may contain contaminants.

How We Pack Livestock

At New Dawn Aquaculture, we take every step to ensure your marine life arrives alive and thriving!

Carefully Packed for a Safe Journey
  • Livestock is hand-packed in sealed oxygen-filled bags with fresh saltwater.
  • Insulated coolers with heat or ice packs keep conditions stable, regardless of weather.
  • Built to handle up to 48 hours in transit.
Fast Delivery, Every Time

We ship FedEx Priority Overnight so your marine life arrives the next day, reducing stress and maximizing health.

Our Promise

Healthy, vibrant marine life delivered to your door, guaranteed. Shop with peace of mind—your aquarium deserves the best!

Arrive Alive Guarantee Policy

At New Dawn Aquaculture, we guarantee that your livestock arrives alive and healthy—no exceptions. Here's how it works:

What’s Covered

 All shipped livestock, including corals, fish, inverts, and live foods.

How It Works
  1. Be present for delivery and follow our acclimation guide.
  2. Report any issues within 48 hours of delivery by emailing info@ndaquaculture.ca with clear photos of the unopened livestock.
Resolution Options

We’ll offer a replacement (if available), store credit, or refund based on your preference.

Limitations
  1. Issues caused by acclimation errors, improper handling, or poor water parameters are not covered.
  2. Claims submitted after 48 hours are ineligible.

Your satisfaction is our priority! Contact us anytime at info@ndaquaculture.ca or 780-860-9103.

New Dawn Aquaculture – Quality Marine Life Delivered.

Payment & Security

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Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.

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New Dawn is built around aquacultured coral, captive-bred marine life, and practical reef support from a real coral farm. Alongside the livestock we grow, we also offer reef products and essentials that reflect the systems, standards, and day-to-day practices behind the farm itself.

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