The Clown Tang (Acanthurus lineatus) is a striking marine surgeonfish with electric-blue stripes across a bright yellow-orange body. Also known as the Blue-Banded Surgeonfish or Lined Surgeonfish, it spends much of the day swimming in the open and grazing across rockwork. Its bold markings and constant movement make it a standout fish for a large reef display.
Clown Tangs are powerful swimmers that can become territorial as they mature, especially around other surgeonfish. They’re best suited to an experienced marine aquarist with a large, established saltwater aquarium. Give them long, open swimming lanes, good water movement and plenty of mature rockwork to graze.
Quick care guide
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Adult size — Can reach around 38 cm
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Recommended aquarium — Approximately 950 L or larger, with ample length for swimming
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Care level — Advanced
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Temperament — Territorial, particularly towards other tangs and similarly shaped fish
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Reef compatibility — Generally reef safe
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Diet — Marine nori, spirulina-based foods and algae-rich pellets, supplemented with suitable frozen marine foods
Simply Fish recommendation
Choose a Clown Tang based on the space you can give it at adult size. We recommend a long aquarium with open swimming room across the front, rockwork for grazing and strong circulation to keep the water well oxygenated. If you already have tangs, talk to us about your tank dimensions and current stock before adding one.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Clown Tang reef safe?
Yes, it’s generally considered reef safe. Its main compatibility concern is territorial behaviour towards other fish, particularly surgeonfish.
Can I keep a Clown Tang with other tangs?
It can work in a very large, carefully stocked aquarium, but Clown Tangs can be aggressive towards similar fish. Tank length, rockwork and the existing mix of fish all matter.
What should I feed a Clown Tang?
Offer marine seaweed regularly on a feeding clip and rotate it with spirulina-based foods and algae-rich pellets. Suitable frozen marine foods can add variety.
Can a juvenile Clown Tang live in a smaller reef tank?
We recommend starting with an aquarium that can accommodate the adult fish. A juvenile’s purchase size gives little indication of the swimming room and territory it will eventually need.
