Koi Scopas Tang

Zebrasoma scopas

Identification	A rare designer color morph of the Scopas Tang, showing irregular koi-like patches of orange, white, black, and brown instead of the normal uniform brown. Classic disc-shaped Zebrasoma body with tall dorsal and anal fins.
Maximum Length	About 8 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific (the koi coloration is a rare aberrant morph)
Minimum Tank Size	75 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Yes

Behavior

The Koi Scopas Tang behaves like a standard Scopas Tang, an active and hardy algae grazer that spends its day picking film and hair algae off the rockwork. It can be semi-aggressive toward other tangs, especially other Zebrasoma, but is otherwise a good community fish. Its koi patterning makes it a prized rarity.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily herbivorous. Offer dried marine algae (nori) on a clip regularly, along with a varied diet of frozen and prepared foods. A strong algae diet keeps it healthy and its colors bright.

Cautions

Can be territorial toward other tangs, so add it last and give it space, and avoid keeping it with other Zebrasoma in smaller tanks. Like all tangs it is prone to ich, so quarantine before adding it. Note that the koi coloration can shift or intensify as the fish grows, so its exact pattern may change over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Koi Scopas Tang reef safe?

Yes. It is an algae grazer that helps control film and hair algae and will not harm corals or inverts, just like a standard scopas tang.

What is a Koi Scopas Tang?

It is a rare color morph of the ordinary Scopas Tang (Zebrasoma scopas), showing koi-like patches of orange, white, and black instead of uniform brown. Care is identical to a normal scopas tang; the rarity is purely the coloration.

What size tank does a Koi Scopas Tang need?

At least 75 gallons with open swimming room. It reaches about 8 inches and, like all tangs, needs space to graze and roam.