The Palette Surgeonfish (Paracanthurus hepatus), also known as the blue tang or regal tang, is a vibrant marine fish famous for its brilliant blue body and yellow tail. It became globally known as "Dory" in animated films.
Scientific Name
Paracanthurus hepatus
Habitat
Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including coral reefs of East Africa, Japan, Indonesia, and Australia.
Conservation
Listed as Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, it faces threats from coral‑reef habitat loss, overcollection for the aquarium trade, and destructive fishing practices.
Lifespan
Can live up to 8–20 years with proper marine care.
Fun Fact
Despite its fragile appearance, it can wedge itself between rocks to sleep or hide from predators.
Diet
Omnivorous – mainly feeds on algae and plankton. In aquariums, they eat seaweed sheets, pellets, and meaty foods like shrimp.
Average Size
Grows up to 12 inches (30 cm).
Location / Placement info
Displayed in the Coastal Reef Exhibit, near the Ocean-View Tunnel
FAQ
What is the lifespan of a Palette Surgeonfish?
They typically live for 8–20 years in captivity with excellent care.
What do they eat?
They are omnivores, feeding mainly on algae, seaweed, and also meaty marine food.
Are Palette Surgeonfish aggressive?
They are generally peaceful, but may become territorial with other tangs.
What is the ideal tank size?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended due to their size and swimming needs.
Do they need a specific environment?
Yes, they need a reef-safe, oxygen-rich, high-flow tank with live rock and hiding spots.
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