Tangs
Blue Hippo Tang
Paracanthurus hepatus
Needs serious space — 400+ litres is the realistic minimum for long-term welfare. One per tank; hostile to other tangs.
Difficulty
intermediate
Adult size
Up to 30 cm
Temperament
Active and semi-aggressive; needs swimming room
Minimum tank
400+ litres
Diet
Herbivore — nori sheets, algae-based pellets, frozen foods with marine algae
Lifespan
20+ years in large systems
Water parameters
- Temperature75–80°F
- Specific gravity1.024–1.026
- pH8.1–8.4
Species-specific requirements override general saltwater guidelines.
Natural habitat
Open reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific; juveniles school, adults patrol territories
Care notes
Famous as the "Dory" fish. Prone to marine ich when stressed; stable water and a varied herbivore diet are essential.
Sourcing & ethics
We list only species that can be sourced responsibly. Availability in Nepal varies — confirm current stock before planning a build.
Available seasonally in Nepal; a large-tank species — confirm before ordering.
Compatibility
Good company
Keep with caution
“Caution” reflects likely aggression or predation — outcome depends on tank size, order of addition and individual temperament.