Goldrim Surgeonfish
(Acanthurus nigricans)

Description

The common names for *Acanthurus nigricans* include Whitecheek Tang, Gold-rimmed Surgeonfish, Whitecheek Surgeonfish, Gold Rim Tang, and Powder Gray Surgeonfish.

**Overview:**
The Whitecheek Tang (*Acanthurus nigricans*) is a striking marine fish featuring a black to purplish-blue body. It has a distinctive small white mark on its cheek, between the mouth and eyes. Its pectoral, anal, and dorsal fins are dark blue with bright blue highlights, and a yellow striping runs along the body, against the anal and dorsal fins, forming a wishbone-shaped marking. The caudal fin is blue with a yellow vertical bar. This species is an active swimmer, constantly grazing on algae.

**Care Level:**
This is a moderate to advanced care level species, best suited for experienced marine aquarists. The Whitecheek Tang is semi-aggressive, particularly towards other tangs or similarly shaped fish. It is generally peaceful with other fish species in the tank. It’s often recommended to keep only one per tank or introduce them simultaneously in very large aquariums with ample hiding places to prevent territorial disputes.

**Tank Essentials:**
A minimum tank size of 475 litres (125 gallons) is recommended, with some sources suggesting 600-700 litres (150-185 gallons) for ample swimming room and stability. It thrives in established aquariums with stable, highly oxygenated water and strong water movement. Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding spots. Water parameters should be: pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 22-27°C (72-80°F), and salinity 1.020-1.025.

**Diet:**
The Whitecheek Tang is primarily herbivorous and requires a diet rich in marine-based seaweed and algae to maintain its immune system, health, and coloration. Offer dried seaweed (like Nori) tied to a rock or using a veggie clip at least three times a week. Supplement with high-quality vegetable flakes and some meaty foods like mysis shrimp or brine shrimp sparingly.

**Why Buy From Us:**
We responsibly source and meticulously quarantine all our marine fish, including the Whitecheek Tang, for optimal health before they reach your home. Our expert team ensures healthy aquarium fish, providing a seamless transition to your established system with humane shipping practices.

**Scientific Name:** *Acanthurus nigricans*
**Common Name / Variant:** Whitecheek Tang / Gold-rimmed Surgeonfish
**Maximum Size:** 22 cm
**Origin:** Indo-West Pacific Ocean (including Hawaii, Indonesia, Great Barrier Reef, Cocos-Keeling Islands, Christmas Island, Ryukyu Islands, French Polynesia)
**pH Range:** 8.1–8.4
**Temperature:** 22–27°C
**Lifespan:** Up to 34 years
**Swimming Zone:** Mid-Top (Pelagic/Open Water)

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Whitecheek Tang: A Striking Gold-Rimmed Beauty!

Bring the vibrant elegance of the Whitecheek Tang to your marine aquarium. This active and visually stunning surgeonfish makes a captivating centrepiece for experienced aquarists.

Overview
The Whitecheek Tang (*Acanthurus nigricans*) boasts a deep black to purplish-blue body, uniquely accented by a small white patch beneath its eye. Its fins display brilliant blue highlights, contrasted by distinctive yellow striping along the dorsal and anal fins, forming a striking wishbone pattern. An agile swimmer, this fish gracefully navigates open water while diligently grazing on algae throughout the day.

Care Level
Considered a moderate to advanced care level species, the Whitecheek Tang thrives with experienced keepers. While generally peaceful with most tankmates, it can be semi-aggressive towards other tangs or similarly shaped fish. Providing ample space and hiding spots is crucial for its well-being, especially during initial acclimation.

Tank Essentials
A spacious aquarium of at least 475 litres (125 gallons) is necessary, with larger tanks (600-700 litres) being ideal for long-term health and stability. Maintain pristine, highly oxygenated water with strong currents. Optimal parameters include a pH of 8.1-8.4, temperature between 22-27°C, and a salinity of 1.020-1.025. Ample live rock supports natural grazing.

Diet
As a primary herbivore, the Whitecheek Tang requires a diet heavily based on marine algae. Offer dried seaweed (Nori) on a veggie clip at least three times a week. Supplement with high-quality vegetable flakes and, occasionally, small meaty foods for a balanced diet.

Why Buy From Us
We are committed to providing healthy aquarium fish. Every Whitecheek Tang is responsibly sourced and undergoes a rigorous quarantine process to ensure it arrives in peak condition. We prioritise humane shipping, delivering vibrant specimens ready to thrive in your established system.

• Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigricans
• Common Name / Variant: Whitecheek Tang / Gold-rimmed Surgeonfish
• Maximum Size: 22 cm
• Origin: Indo-West Pacific Ocean
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 22–27°C
• Lifespan: Up to 34 years
• Swimming Zone: Mid-Top

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