The Gem Tang is one of the most iconic and highly coveted tangs in the marine aquarium hobby. Known for its deep charcoal-to-black body covered in brilliant white, pearl-like spots and accented with vibrant yellow on the fins and tail, this species delivers unmatched visual impact and elegance.
Endemic to a limited range near Madagascar and collected from deeper reef zones, the Gem Tang’s rarity and natural beauty have made it a true collector’s fish. When provided with excellent water quality, strong lighting, and proper nutrition, its coloration becomes even more intense, making it a premier centerpiece for high-end reef systems.
Despite its elite status, the Gem Tang can be hardy when properly acclimated and housed in a mature, spacious aquarium. It is primarily herbivorous, contributing to algae control while remaining reef-safe with corals and most invertebrates.
Scientific Name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
Common Name: Gem Tang
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Semi-Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Adult Size: ~8 inches
Diet: Herbivore (nori, marine algae, spirulina, high-quality pellets, frozen foods)
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily
Lighting Requirement: Moderate to High
Water Flow: Moderate to Strong
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Best kept as the only Zebrasoma tang unless housed in very large systems; generally peaceful with non-tang tank mates.
Special Requirements: Requires a mature, stable aquarium with ample swimming space and consistent feeding.
The Gem Tang is one of the most iconic and highly coveted tangs in the marine aquarium hobby. Known for its deep charcoal-to-black body covered in brilliant white, pearl-like spots and accented with vibrant yellow on the fins and tail, this species delivers unmatched visual impact and elegance.
Endemic to a limited range near Madagascar and collected from deeper reef zones, the Gem Tang’s rarity and natural beauty have made it a true collector’s fish. When provided with excellent water quality, strong lighting, and proper nutrition, its coloration becomes even more intense, making it a premier centerpiece for high-end reef systems.
Despite its elite status, the Gem Tang can be hardy when properly acclimated and housed in a mature, spacious aquarium. It is primarily herbivorous, contributing to algae control while remaining reef-safe with corals and most invertebrates.
Scientific Name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
Common Name: Gem Tang
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Semi-Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Adult Size: ~8 inches
Diet: Herbivore (nori, marine algae, spirulina, high-quality pellets, frozen foods)
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily
Lighting Requirement: Moderate to High
Water Flow: Moderate to Strong
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Best kept as the only Zebrasoma tang unless housed in very large systems; generally peaceful with non-tang tank mates.
Special Requirements: Requires a mature, stable aquarium with ample swimming space and consistent feeding.
