Zebrasoma scopas (Scopas Tang / Brown Tang)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 350L+
• Adult size: ~30 cm
• Diet: Herbivorous (marine algae, seaweed, spirulina-based flakes/pellets, occasional meaty foods)
• Be aware of: Can be territorial towards other tangs, especially those from the Zebrasoma genus. Requires a high-fiber diet for digestive health. Hardy but susceptible to marine ich if stressed.
Scopas Tang (Zebrasoma scopas) – A Hardy and Underrated Algae Grazer
The Scopas Tang, also known as the Brown Tang, is a hardy and adaptable member of the Zebrasoma genus. While it may not be as vibrantly coloured as the Yellow Tang or Purple Tang, its variable colouration, algae-eating habits, and peaceful nature make it a valuable addition to many marine aquariums.
Appearance and Coloration
Scopas Tangs exhibit highly variable coloration, ranging from solid brown to a mix of olive, yellow, or dark patterns. Some individuals even display mottled or gradient shading, giving each fish a unique look. Their elongated dorsal and anal fins give them a classic tang silhouette, similar to other Zebrasoma species.
As they mature, their colour may darken or shift, depending on diet, lighting, and tank conditions. Some specimens may appear darker brown with subtle blue or purple hues, while others retain a more golden tone.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Scopas Tangs are found in shallow coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky coastal areas throughout the Indo-Pacific region. They are active grazers, feeding on algae-covered rocks and reef surfaces throughout the day.
In captivity, they are:
• Constant grazers, helping to control nuisance algae.
• Moderate swimmers, preferring a mix of open space and rock structures.
• Semi-aggressive, especially towards other tangs, but generally peaceful in a mixed community tank.
They can be territorial, especially towards other Zebrasoma tangs (such as Yellow or Purple Tangs), so care should be taken when introducing multiple tangs in the same tank.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
While smaller than some other tangs, Scopas Tangs still require a moderate to large aquarium due to their active swimming habits.
• Minimum tank size: 350L+ (larger preferred for long-term care)
• Temperature: 23–26°C
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Water movement: Moderate to strong
• Filtration: High-capacity filtration and protein skimming recommended
Since they are herbivorous grazers, having live rock with natural algae growth helps provide a natural feeding environment.
Diet and Feeding
Scopas Tangs are primarily herbivores, grazing on macroalgae and detritus in the wild. In captivity, they need a plant-rich diet to maintain health and coloration.
Recommended foods include:
• Dried seaweed (Nori) – Essential for digestive health
• Spirulina-based flakes and pellets – Supports immune function and coloration
• Fresh macroalgae – Such as chaetomorpha or gracilaria
• Occasional meaty foods – Enriched mysis shrimp, brine shrimp (as a supplement only)
They should be fed multiple times per day, as they naturally graze throughout the day. A lack of algae in their diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies and stress.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Scopas Tangs are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when housed with other tangs.
Best tank mates include:
✔ Clownfish
✔ Wrasses (e.g., Fairy Wrasses, Halichoeres species)
✔ Gobies and blennies
✔ Angelfish (both dwarf and large species)
✔ Other peaceful or semi-aggressive reef-safe fish
Avoid housing with:
❌ Other Zebrasoma tangs (Yellow Tang, Purple Tang, Sailfin Tang) unless in a large system
❌ Highly aggressive tang species (Sohal Tang, Clown Tang)
❌ Slow-moving fish that may struggle to compete for food
If keeping multiple tangs, it is best to introduce them simultaneously in a large tank to minimize territorial disputes.
Health and Disease Considerations
Scopas Tangs are relatively hardy, but like all tangs, they can be prone to common saltwater fish diseases:
• Marine ich (Cryptocaryon irritans) – Often triggered by stress or poor water conditions. Quarantining new fishbefore introduction is recommended.
• Head and Lateral Line Erosion (HLLE) – Often caused by a poor diet, lack of algae, or low water quality.
• Nutritional deficiencies – A diet lacking in algae can cause faded coloration and digestive issues.
To maintain their health:
✔ Ensure a diet rich in algae and marine vegetation.
✔ Keep water parameters stable and avoid sudden changes.
✔ Quarantine new additions to prevent disease outbreaks.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Scopas Tangs can live up to 10-12 years in captivity. Their adaptability, algae-eating habits, and peaceful temperament make them a great addition to a variety of reef tanks.
Why Choose a Scopas Tang?
✔ Great for algae control – Constant grazer, helps maintain a clean tank.
✔ Hardy and adaptable – Easier to keep than some other tangs.
✔ Smaller than other tang species – Suitable for medium-sized tanks (350L+).
✔ Unique and variable coloration – No two Scopas Tangs look exactly the same.