Care
The Powder Brown Tang is a very delicate fish, suitable for advanced aquarists only. It is a species that is best maintained in a large, mature reef setting where there is an abundant growth of algae on the live rock, upon which the fish can constantly browse. Hostile towards its own kind and other Acanthurus species, keep only one per tank. Ensure that there are plenty of hiding places amongst the reef structure for the Powder Brown Tang to retreat into if necessary, particularly during the settling in period when it may be a little shy. Water quality must be maintained to consistently high standards, as, like some other members of this family, the Powder Brown Tang is susceptible to whitespot, which can be difficult to treat in the reef aquarium. This is an agile fish that appreciates a good amount of swimming space and a decent current. There is a very similar looking species, the White Cheeked Tang (Acanthurus nigricans) known from the Tropical-pan-Pacific, which is slightly more robust. Both species have been sold under the Gold Rimmed Tang nametag, and so it is best to use the scientific name to avoid confusion.
Feeding
Can be finicky. Offer a varied diet, consisting mainly of vegetable matter, in small amounts 3 times per day. Although this species will browse on algae within the aquarium, its diet must be supplemented with frozen herbivore rations, green marine flake, Spirulina (blue-green algae), Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, cucumber, lettuce, Nori (dried seaweed) etc. It will also take small meaty frozen foods, but be sure that it is receiving enough green food to prevent HLLE. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.
Breeding
This egg laying species is unlikely to breed in the home aquarium. Group spawnings have been observed in the ocean, which are said to take place at night.
