Description

💎 Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum)

The Crown Jewel of the Reef Aquarium

The Gem Tang, also known as the Spotted Tang or Gemmatum Tang, is widely regarded as one of the most exquisite and sought-after marine fish in the aquarium trade. With its velvety jet-black body adorned by shimmering white or golden speckles and a vibrant yellow tail, this fish is nothing short of mesmerizing. Native to the deep waters off Mauritius and parts of the Western Indian Ocean, the Gem Tang’s rarity in the wild and its stunning appearance make it a prized addition for serious aquarists.

Often referred to as the “Holy Grail” of tangs, this species is not only a showpiece in appearance but also a functional grazer that helps control algae in reef systems. Captive care can be straightforward with proper tank conditions, making it both a beauty and a utility fish in the hands of experienced hobbyists.

✨ Key Features

• 💠 Unmatched Aesthetic: Jet-black body with iridescent white or golden speckles and a contrasting yellow tail
• 🌊 Rare & Highly Coveted: One of the most exclusive tangs available in the marine aquarium hobby
• 🧹 Natural Algae Grazer: Actively helps reduce nuisance algae in reef tanks
• 💎 Elegant & Peaceful: Generally non-aggressive if housed appropriately
• 🐟 Hardy Once Acclimated: Can thrive in established, well-maintained marine setups

📏 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
• Origin: Western Indian Ocean (Mauritius, Reunion, Madagascar)
• Size: Up to 20 cm (8 inches) in adulthood
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial with other tangs
• Reef Safe: ✅ Yes
• Diet: Herbivorous – eats nori, spirulina, algae pellets, and frozen foods
• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

🌊 Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 400L+ (ideally 500L or more for adult specimens)
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong
• Aquascaping: Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, with open swimming areas

🧠 Behavior & Compatibility

The Gem Tang is generally peaceful but can become territorial with other surgeonfish, especially those of the Zebrasoma or Acanthurus genera. It is best kept as the only tang in smaller tanks, or added last in large systems with multiple tangs.

This species thrives in reef tanks with plenty of natural algae and does well with most non-aggressive tankmates including clownfish, wrasses, gobies, angelfish, and reef-safe invertebrates.

📦 What You’ll Receive

You will receive a healthy, quarantined Gem Tang, carefully acclimated and feeding on prepared foods. Due to the high value and sensitivity of this species, shipping is done with extra care and direct flights are preferred over next day courier.

Please note: Due to its rarity and delicate handling needs, availability is extremely limited and often requires pre-booking.

💎 A symbol of marine elegance, the Gem Tang is more than a fish—it’s a collector’s treasure. Whether you’re curating a luxury reef system or completing your dream tank, this stunning tang offers both utility and unmatched visual impact.