Care
The Red Stripe Mimic Tang is known from shallow lagoons and seaward reefs in areas of mixed coral, rock, or sand to depths of 30m (98ft). Juveniles of this species mimic the Red Stripe Angelfish (
Centropyge eibli). The relationship is Batesian, in that the juvenile tang avoids predation because it resembles the less-palatable angelfish. As the fish mature, the red stripes gradually disappear and the tail takes on a beautiful lunate shape. Due to an active nature and moderate adult size, the Red Stripe Mimic Tang requires a good sized aquarium with vigorous filtration and plenty of water movement and oxygenation. These fish are generally safe in the reef aquarium, providing they are well fed. A mature tank is necessary to help ensure that your Red Stripe Mimic Tang settles in well; in particular these fish enjoy grazing upon filamentous algae growing upon the decor. Arrange the live rock to create a sloping reef, with plenty of boltholes for the fish, should they feel the need to dash for cover at any time. Keep only one per tank, and not with any other
Acanthurus species or direct food competitors, as these fish can be highly territorial. In very large aquaria, it is possible to maintain these fish alongside Tangs of other genera such as
Ctenochaetus,
Naso, and
Zebrasoma "“ but ideally they should be of a similar size and added simultaneously. However, personalities do vary between individuals, so observe your fish very carefully to ensure that there are no problems. It is not advisable to house this fish with the Red Stripe Angelfish (
Centropyge eibli) that it mimics, as the tang is likely to show much aggression towards the angelfish. May also be seen on sale as Indian Mimic Tang, Indian Ocean Mimic Tang, or Mimic Eibli Tang.
Feeding
Feed a varied diet for omnivores, with a large vegetable component, in small amounts several 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, broccoli, Nori (dried seaweed) etc. It will also take meaty frozen foods such as Mysis, but be sure that it is receiving enough green food to help prevent HLLE. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
