Chronixis Mimic Tang Care Guide
Acanthurus chronixis is a rare Western Pacific surgeonfish possibly endemic to Kapingamarangi Atoll, reaching about 28 cm and listed by IUCN as Vulnerable.
Overview
Acanthurus chronixis, the Chronixis surgeonfish, is a rare member of the family Acanthuridae. According to FishBase it is possibly endemic to Kapingamarangi Atoll in the Caroline Islands and reaches a maximum total length of 28 cm. The species is noted as rare and not commercial.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthuridae
- Genus: Acanthurus
- Scientific name: Acanthurus chronixis
- Described by: Randall, 1960
Habitat
The species is marine and reef-associated in the Western Pacific, recorded only from Kapingamarangi Atoll. FishBase reports it over sand and coral bottoms of clear channels at depths of 0-6 m, with juveniles likely inhabiting reef flats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L (158 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Strong water flow
- Lifespan: 10-25 years
Diet
As a surgeonfish of the genus Acanthurus, it is a herbivorous grazer. In aquaria, marine algae and dried seaweed should be offered multiple times daily; this rarely traded species is seldom kept.
Compatibility
A semi-aggressive, diurnal mid-water swimmer. As with other tangs, wrasses, clownfish, angelfish and sturdy triggerfish make suitable tankmates, while other tangs of similar shape should be avoided in smaller systems.
Reef compatibility
The species does not eat coral and is considered reef-safe. Maintain carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH and specific gravity of 1.024-1.026.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable, assessed in 2010 via FishBase, reflecting its very restricted range.