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Juvenile Orange Shoulder Tang Fish

$14999
You will receive a fish SIMILAR in design and size to the fish in the photo. This is NOT a WYSIWYG fish.
SKU: AWIF_OrangeShoulderSM

Tags:   Almost WYSIWYG FISH Reef Safe Tang

AWYSIWYG – Approx. Size: 2-3.5 Inches

Juvenile Orange Shoulder Tang (Acanthurus olivaceus)

The Juvenile Orange Shoulder Tang is a vibrant, eye-catching addition to any saltwater aquarium. Sporting a brilliant yellow body with a subtle hint of the namesake orange shoulder marking, this tang gradually transforms into a stunning slate-blue adult with a bold orange stripe. Known for their graceful swimming and algae-grazing habits, these tangs bring both beauty and function to your tank.

Tank Requirements

Juvenile Orange Shoulder Tangs should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons, with plans to upgrade to 125+ gallons as they mature. They thrive in open spaces for swimming along with live rock for grazing and hiding. A well-oxygenated environment with stable water parameters will support their long-term health and development.

Colorful Growth and Transformation

One of the most rewarding aspects of keeping this species is witnessing its dramatic color change. Starting out as bright yellow juveniles, they gradually develop their namesake orange shoulder and shift into a more subdued, yet striking, adult coloration. Peaceful by nature, they add elegant movement and utility to the reef ecosystem.

Diet and Feeding

These herbivores do best with a diet rich in marine-based seaweed and algae. Offer dried seaweed (nori) on a clip daily, along with spirulina-based flakes, pellets, and occasional meaty treats like mysis shrimp. A varied and nutrient-rich diet helps support coloration and immune health.

Tankmates and Behavior

Juvenile Orange Shoulder Tangs are generally peaceful, especially when young, and do well in community reef tanks. As they grow, they may become more territorial toward similar-shaped tangs, so it's best to introduce them early and avoid housing with other Acanthurus species unless the tank is very large. Fully reef-safe, they will not harm corals or invertebrates.