Yellow tang temporary 20 gallon

[reefer_gabe814]

Hi, I was wondering if i can keep a baby yellow tang in a 20 gallon tank until i upgrade to a 75 gallon tank in a couple months

 

[TheTodd]

It will be fine. I have one in a 35g for QT before adding to my 240g. The bigger question is will it be okay in the upsized 75g tank? I'm a big fan of the "Tangs need a 6' tank to thrive" (bristletooth tangs are the exception and would do fine in a 75g).

 

[BigRedsReefs10]

Why not just wait until you set up the bigger tank (agree with Todd on tank size) to get a yellow? It's far more likely for it to get stressed and get sick in a 20 and probably won't make it to the big tank...

 

[reefer_gabe814]

I have another question, will the scopas tang be the same as a yellow tang? I just love the look of yellow and scopas tangs. I think they look beautiful. What do you suggest?

 

[TheTodd]

Bristletooth Tangs (Kole, Tomini, etc) are the only Tangs that should go into a 75g, IMO. All others have swimming habits where anything less than a 6' tank is not enough. People will argue this forever, but from what I have seen over the years, it holds true. Tangs in smaller tanks tend to have health issues and often territorial issues. Tominis and Koles are both good- looking fish (especially if you can find a Tomini with bright orange on the fins) and they should be fine in a 75g.

I'm not trying to start a Tang Police debate here, just expressing my opinion based on lots of experience and observations over the years.

 

[bribo12]

Honestly just wait until the 75 is set up. No need to subject an animal to more stress than necessary. Tangs have quite the bioload as well, even small ones.

 

[navaljonf]

My experience is that tangs are also uber sensitive. I'd recommend waiting until you have your 75 gal up and going.

 

[Gregcoyote]

I have been working with tangs for decades. I agree with Todd on this issue.