Mata Tang

[Dropt98chevy]

I saw one at my LFS and fell in love. I researched it real quick and saw they are very hardy and great in reefs. Also saw they get 6" and so I bought him for $25. I can't find too much info on them but every site that's sells them has the about $100 for 3". Is he okay to stay in my 55 gallon? Any information on this guy is appreciated. Thanks.

[crvz]

This fish (Acanthurus mata) will easily breach 12" in captivity, and their full size is closer to 20". Definitely not a good choice for a 55 gallon tank, I'd seriously consider returning him to the store or finding someone with a good size tank (300 gallons or so) to give/sell it to.

[Dropt98chevy]

What kind of tang could I keep in a 55 gallon?

[crvz]

Originally Posted by Dropt98chevy

What kind of tang could I keep in a 55 gallon?

Almost none. some folks feel that those in the Ctenochaetus genus are tolerable solutions for a 55 gallon tank, but the dimensions of such a setup don't lend themselves well to surgeonfish (which very much enjoy the space to swim freely). The Kole or tomini tang will work much better as a long term solution, but even that is pushing it.

[Loverotties]

Originally Posted by Dropt98chevy

What kind of tang could I keep in a 55 gallon?

A plastic one.