Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum) Care Guide
Zebrasoma gemmatum, the gem tang, is a rare deep-water surgeonfish from the southwestern Indian Ocean, dark brown with numerous white spots and a yellow tail.
Overview
Zebrasoma gemmatum, the gem tang, is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae. Its body is dark brown with numerous small white spots over the head, body and fins, and the caudal fin is yellow. It is a rare, territorial species and one of the most valuable tangs in the aquarium trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthuridae
- Genus: Zebrasoma
- Scientific name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
Habitat
The species is endemic to the southwestern Indian Ocean off South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Reunion and Mauritius. It is a deeper-water reef fish, typically found singly below 25 m and down to around 60 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- Water flow: high
- Adult size: up to about 22 cm
- Lifespan: 10-25 years
Diet
FishBase gives a trophic level of 2.0, consistent with an algae-based herbivorous diet typical of tangs. In the aquarium it requires plentiful algae or dried marine algae offered several times daily.
Compatibility
Described as extremely territorial and solitary, showing aggression toward conspecifics and other fish. It can be kept with wrasses, clownfish, angelfish and sturdy triggers. Other tangs, especially those of similar shape, should be avoided in smaller tanks.
Reef compatibility
The gem tang is reef-safe and grazes algae. Given its territorial nature and adult size, it needs a spacious reef aquarium with strong flow.
Breeding
Aquarium breeding is not established and is considered an expert undertaking.