Blue Hippo Tang - Central Pacific

Paracanthurus hepatus


(0 Reviews)

Blue Hippo Tang - Central Pacific

Blue Hippo Tang - Central Pacific

Paracanthurus hepatus


(0 Reviews)

Free Shipping

With $199.00 or more in Marine Life.
More details...

Care Facts

Care Level: Expert
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Flake, Pellet, Brine, Greens
Origin: Indian Ocean
Acclimation Time: 3+ hours
Coral Safe: Yes
Invertebrate Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons

The Blue Hippo Tang, a.k.a. Regal Tang, is a beautiful blue fish with black bands and a yellow tailfin. These fish have interesting behavior and do well in groups. The Blue Hippo likes lots of rockwork to help make it feel secure. They can be kept singly or in groups. The Blue Hippo can be very timid and may wedge themselves under rocks and into caves and crevices when young or new to an aquarium. In the wild they will wedge themselves into coralheads and branching corals. They are very peaceful towards other fish and do well in a peaceful community or reef tank. This fish will often lie on its side and "play dead".The Surgeonfish family consists of fish which are colorful, thin-bodied, and usually have an oval shape. These fish have long continuous dorsal and anal fins and crescent tailfins. The scalpel at the base of their tailfin is very sharp and is used by the fish for protection from predators as well as a way of establishing itself with other fish. 


The Enigmatic Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)

The Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is an iconic and enchanting fish that has captured the hearts of saltwater aquarium enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its vibrant colors and unique body shape, this marine beauty adds a touch of elegance to any underwater setting. Let's dive into the fascinating world of the Blue Hippo Tang and explore its habitat, reef-safe nature, size, lifespan, diet, aquaculture options, compatibility, suitable tank mates, tank requirements, and other common names.

Habitat of the Blue Hippo Tang

The Blue Hippo Tang is commonly found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the eastern coast of Africa, and the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. In the wild, they inhabit coral-rich reefs, seeking shelter and feeding on algae.

Reef-Safe Nature of the Blue Hippo Tang

The Blue Hippo Tang is considered reef-safe, making it an excellent addition to reef aquariums. They are peaceful towards corals and other invertebrates, and their diet primarily consists of algae, helping to keep the reef environment clean and balanced.

Size and Lifespan of the Blue Hippo Tang

Blue Hippo Tangs can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length as one of the larger tang species. When kept in a spacious and well-maintained aquarium, they can live for over a decade, rewarding their owners with years of joy and companionship.

Diet of the Blue Hippo Tang

In their natural habitat, Blue Hippo Tangs are herbivores, feeding on various types of algae that grow on coral reefs. In captivity, it is essential to offer a balanced diet that includes high-quality algae-based flake or pellet foods and occasional supplements of marine algae and fresh greens like seaweed.

Aquaculture Options for the Blue Hippo Tang

Due to the high demand for this captivating fish, there have been successful efforts in breeding Blue Hippo Tangs through aquaculture. Captive-bred specimens are becoming more readily available in the aquarium trade, which helps reduce the pressure on wild populations and supports sustainable marine aquarium practices.

Compatibility and Suitable Tank Mates for the Blue Hippo Tang

When considering tank mates for the Blue Hippo Tang, choosing peaceful and non-aggressive species is crucial. Tangs can be territorial and may display aggressive behavior towards other tangs or fish with a similar body shape and coloration. It's best to keep them in larger aquariums with plenty of space and hiding spots.

Tank Requirements for the Blue Hippo Tang

Setting up a suitable tank for the Blue Hippo Tang involves replicating a coral-rich reef environment. Provide ample swimming space, a variety of live rock for grazing and hiding, and ensure stable water parameters to maintain the health and well-being of this majestic fish.

Other Common Names of the Blue Hippo Tang

In addition to the name "Blue Hippo Tang," this species is also known by other common names such as "Palette Surgeonfish," "Regal Tang," "Royal Blue Tang," or simply the “Blue Tang.”

The Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is a stunning marvel that splashes vibrant color and grace in your saltwater aquarium. With its reef-safe nature and captivating appearance, this fish is popular among marine enthusiasts. Providing them with a spacious, well-maintained aquarium and a balanced diet ensures they thrive and continue mesmerizing their owners for many years.

The tang I received is absolutely beautiful! Bright vibrant colors make this fish the centerpiece of my tank. I thought it would be dead when I got it due to a full day delay in delivery from bad weather but it and the other fish I ordered were alive and well. They are doing great and getting along with all the other fish in the tank.


Reviewed by: Debra Gray on July 16, 2017

How can you not love Dori ? I read that this is a very shy fish but this one in particular was not shy at all. Mediately it began sending around the rocks. Since I just started up my tank I was afraid that the yellow tang my boss in this particular purchase was a lot bigger than the hippo, that they would not get along. Luckily they both are getting along just fine because I think I introduced them at the same time. She started eating more than two and three days and now it's been about a week and a half and she's doing fabulous.


Reviewed by: Martha Cross on March 29, 2017

Beautiful addition. Always out and About though never too long away from home. Easy to co-exist with Powder Blue & Yellow Zebrasoma!


Reviewed by: Brent R> Witt on Aug. 15, 2016

Gorgeous fish but came in much smaller then expected . Fish takes a long time to acclimate to new environment. needs good hiding spots and lots of patience .


Reviewed by: Joseph Meaden on June 19, 2016

Came overnight and healthy. Purchased on sale for a 1/4 the price of my local fish stores. Was a little pale when he showed up, but quickly acclimated and is fun to watch. Very happy with my purchase


Reviewed by: Mike on July 7, 2015

Beautiful fish! Arrived a day late due to severe storms in Memphis. Everything was meticulously packed and arrived healthy after 2 days in the shipping box. Saltwater Fish does a great job in packaging the marine life. Make sure you follow the acclimation procedure before you enjoy these beautiful creatures!


Reviewed by: Robert Widor on July 1, 2015

What more then gorgeous and healthy can I say?! Thank you!


Reviewed by: Raeshelle Bauders on June 25, 2015

Overall satisfied so far. The fish was very shy at first spending 6 days hiding and then started to socialize. Starting to eat well and play with others in the reef.


Reviewed by: Andrew Conte on May 23, 2015

The blue hippo tang I received is over 3" long and vibrant blue, yellow, and jet black. It acclimated easily and is by far the most active fish in my tank. It owns the tank, but is not aggressive. It also has an excessive appetite and will not stop eating until all food is gone. I would imagine seeing it for sale at a pet store for $100+, as it was an inch longer and much more colorful than one I saw recently for $70.


Reviewed by: Andrew on May 5, 2015

Join the club! Get our best deals first!

Be The First To Hear About Our Exclusive Deals & Latest Updates!