Yellowfin Tang

Acanthurus xanthopterus

Identification	Gray to purplish-gray body with subtle horizontal lines. The pectoral fins are vivid yellow — the defining feature that gives this species its common name. A yellow band surrounds the eye.
Maximum Length	Up to 24 inches (70 cm)
Origin	Indo-Pacific to Eastern Pacific — wide distribution
Minimum Tank Size	250+ gallons
Reef Compatible	Yes

Behavior

One of the largest Acanthurus tangs, the Yellowfin Tang is a powerful, fast swimmer that needs vast open space. Peaceful toward other species. Frequently seen in pairs or small groups on deeper reef slopes in the wild. Rarely kept in home aquariums due to its eventual size.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivore with herbivorous tendencies. Eats algae, zooplankton, and small crustaceans. Offer a varied diet of dried seaweed, algae pellets, frozen mysis, and brine shrimp.

Cautions

Grows very large. Only appropriate for systems of 250 gallons or more. A beautiful but demanding fish best suited to experienced hobbyists with large tanks.