Scopus Tang - Zebrasoma scopas

 

The Scopus Tang (Zebrasoma scopas), also known as the Brown Tang or Twotone Tang, is a popular and hardy species in the marine aquarium hobby. Recognized for its subtle yet elegant colorations, it is highly appreciated by aquarists who seek a peaceful herbivorous fish that aids in controlling algae in the aquarium. Its manageable size and adaptable nature make it a great choice for both beginner and experienced hobbyists.

Description:

• Common Name: Scopus Tang, Brown Tang, Twotone Tang

• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma scopas

• Family: Acanthuridae

• Size: Grows to about 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in length.

• Coloration: The Scopus Tang has a brownish body with a gradient from a light tan-cream front to dark chocolate brown at the real, with tiny blue specling throughout. The coloration of this tang may vary depending on its mood, diet, and environmental factors.

• Lifespan: Can live for up to 5-10 years in a well-maintained aquarium.

Native Region:

The Scopus Tang is native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans, typically found around reef slopes and coral-rich areas. It is most commonly seen in regions such as Hawaii, the Philippines, and the Mariana Islands.

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 100 gallons (378 liters) is recommended for a single Scopus Tang. As a relatively active swimmer, the Scopus Tang needs ample space to swim comfortably.

• Aquascaping: The Scopus Tang thrives in tanks with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. Incorporating open swimming spaces and well-established rockwork will help replicate its natural habitat.

• Water Flow: Prefers moderate to strong water flow. This ensures good water oxygenation and helps keep the tank clean, which benefits the tang’s grazing habits.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity

• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

• Nitrate: Below 10 ppm

• Phosphate: Below 0.03 ppm

Care Level:

• Difficulty: Moderate. While the Scopus Tang is hardy, it requires an adequately sized tank, stable water parameters, and a well-balanced diet to thrive. It is also sensitive to poor water quality and must be kept in a tank with good filtration.

• Diet: The Scopus Tang is an herbivore and will primarily graze on algae, but it should be supplemented with a variety of plant-based foods such as nori, spirulina, and blanched vegetables (like spinach, zucchini, or lettuce). Some meaty foods like brine shrimp or mysis shrimp can also be offered as occasional treats.

• Behavior: The Scopus Tang is a peaceful species, though it can be territorial, especially towards other tangs or similarly shaped fish. It does best in a tank with other peaceful species and enough space to establish its territory.

• Activity Level: Active. It will spend most of its time swimming in the middle to lower parts of the tank, grazing on algae and occasionally interacting with other fish. It is generally not a jumper, but it may occasionally swim to the surface.

Reef Compatibility:

• Reef-Safe: Yes, the Scopus Tang is reef-safe. It poses no threat to corals or invertebrates and actually helps keep algae growth in check, making it a beneficial addition to a reef tank.

• Tank Mates: The Scopus Tang is peaceful but can be territorial, particularly towards other tangs or fish with a similar body shape. It is best kept with other peaceful fish that are not too aggressive or too similar in appearance. Avoid keeping multiple tangs in a small tank unless the tank is large enough to accommodate their territories.

• Avoid: Aggressive or overly territorial fish may harass the Scopus Tang, leading to stress or injury. Other tangs, especially those with similar body shapes, may be especially problematic in a small tank.

Tank Maintenance:

• Feeding: Provide a variety of plant-based foods to ensure the tang is getting the proper nutrition. Supplement with occasional meaty foods for variety and enrichment. Be sure to feed the tang multiple times a day in small portions to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (10-15% every 2 weeks) are necessary to keep nitrate and phosphate levels in check. Strong filtration and proper water flow are important for both maintaining water quality and aiding the tang’s grazing behavior.

• Algae Control: The Scopus Tang is an excellent algae eater, particularly when young. Its constant grazing will help reduce unwanted algae growth in the tank.

Breeding:

Breeding the Scopus Tang in captivity is quite rare, as it requires very specific environmental conditions and a large, established tank. Like most tangs, it is believed to be a pelagic spawner, releasing eggs into the water column. Breeding success in aquariums is typically limited to expert-level aquarists with large, species-specific tanks.

Additional Tips:

• Acclimation: Slowly acclimate the Scopus Tang to a new tank using a drip acclimation method to prevent shock. This is particularly important for tangs, which are sensitive to changes in water conditions.

• Providing Space: Give the Scopus Tang plenty of room to swim, especially if it will be housed with other tangs. Tangs can be territorial, so having plenty of hiding spaces and establishing clear territories can reduce aggression.