The Scopas Tang (Zebrasoma scopas), also known as the brown tang, twotone tang, or brush-tail tang, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It was first formally described as Acanthurus scopas in 1829 by the French zoologist Georges Cuvier. The specific name scopas means ‘broom’, a reference to the bristles on the caudal peduncle near the spine. The brown tang is found throughout Oceania and is a herbivorous fish, feeding predominantly on filamentous algae. It is a highly popular fish in the aquarium trade.

Physical Description

The Scopas Tang is a laterally compressed, deep bodied fish with a protruding snout which grows to a maximum published standard length of 40 cm (16 in). The head is whitish and the body pale brown shading to a dark brownish-black near the black tail. There are faint pale green longitudinal lines starting as dots at the head end and becoming continuous and then dotted again posteriorly. The juveniles are rather paler and have yellowish bars near the anterior end. They also have relatively larger dorsal fins. The adults have a white spine on the caudal peduncle. The large sail-like dorsal fin has 4 or 5 spines and 23 to 25 soft rays. The anal fin has 3 spines and 19 to 21 soft rays.

Distribution and Habitat

The Scopas Tang is found in the Indo-Pacific region, living at water depths of up to 60 metres. Its range extends from the coasts of East Africa to Japan, the Pitcairn Islands, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Lord Howe Island and Rapa Iti.

Diet and Feeding

The Scopas Tang feeds mainly on filamentous algae. For this purpose it has specialised pharyngeal teeth. It is usually found on the exposed side of reefs and in coral-rich lagoons. The adults are gregarious and sometimes form schools but the juveniles are solitary and are often to be found swimming among corals. The brown tang is monogamous, though spawning has been observed both between pairs and among small groups.

Aquarium Care

The Scopas Tang is readily available and is an easier tang for the novice aquarist. Brown tangs do not bother coral and are safe to keep in a reef aquarium. They are smaller and less aggressive than other members of the family Acanthuridae. Brown tangs require an aquarium no less than 75 gallons. They are more tolerant of a wide range of living conditions. They will accept various food including meaty materials but the main part of the diet should be vegetable. They are one of the more peaceful species within its genus and can be kept with other species of tangs.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.