Achilles Tang — Acanthurus achilles | Approx. 5 Inches

Achilles Tang — Acanthurus achilles

The Achilles Tang is one of the most iconic and desirable surgeonfish in the marine aquarium hobby. Its deep black body, brilliant orange teardrop marking, crisp white accents, and powerful swimming behavior make it an unmistakable centerpiece.

Size: Approx. 5 inches

This is a premium advanced-care species best suited for experienced aquarists with large, mature systems capable of providing excellent water quality, strong flow, high oxygenation, and substantial swimming space.

Each specimen is hand-selected, conditioned, and individually observed eating prepared foods before shipping.

Quick Care Guide

Why the Achilles Tang Is Special

• Iconic black, orange, and white coloration
• Extremely active and powerful swimmer
• Excellent natural grazer
• Premium centerpiece for large reef aquariums
• Impressive approx. 5-inch specimen

Advanced Aquarists Recommended

The Achilles Tang is an advanced-care species. Long-term success requires a stable, mature aquarium designed around its high activity and oxygen requirements.

• Excellent and stable water quality
• Strong water movement
• High dissolved oxygen
• Substantial open swimming space
• Consistent high-quality nutrition

Feeding & Conditioning

Achilles Tangs should receive a varied diet focused heavily on marine algae. Frequent feeding helps maintain body weight and overall condition in this highly active species.

• Nori and dried marine algae
• Spirulina-based foods
• High-quality herbivore pellets
• Frozen marine blends
• Mysis and supplemental marine foods
• Multiple smaller feedings when possible

Tang Compatibility

Achilles Tangs can become territorial toward other surgeonfish, particularly other Acanthurus species. Keeping multiple tangs requires substantial space and careful introduction planning.

• Provide extensive open swimming room
• Provide multiple feeding locations
• Include adequate rockwork and retreat areas
• Carefully plan introductions with other tangs

Why Buy From Reefhacker

• Hand-selected for health, body condition, coloration, and activity
• Individually confirmed eating before shipping
• Professionally acclimated and conditioned
• Carefully packed for safe overnight transit
• Backed by our Live Arrival Guarantee

Reefhacker Livestock Standards

Shipping Information

• Ships via overnight delivery
• Professionally insulated packaging
• Temperature protection when needed
• Carefully packed to minimize transit stress