Opinion on Atlantic Blue Tangs

[Mr_Cool]

I've heard different things on this one. Just wondering if anyone has had any first hand experience with them. I've been into saltwater for about 3 1/2 years now, and stop at all the LFS's whenever I'm around one. I've never seen an Atlantic Blue in person until today at Texas Tropical.

I've read/heard that they are not quite as hardy as some of the other tangs, like yellows and purples or the hippo tangs. But, they're not quite as sensitive as the Powder Blues or Achilles.

Then again, I've read/heard that they are great for beginners as they are pretty hardy. They just need a good variety of foods.

I really wanted a Purple Tang, but I haven't been able to find one that wasn't too big or too expensive for my 55 gallon. I know that the Atlantic Blues are pretty close to the purples, and I like the fact that they are a little harder to find. I guess that makes them a little rare.

Any one had trouble keeping one or what? Any input would be appreciated.

[Ross]

Not too difficlut to keep IME. They will outgrow a 55 though just like any other tang....

[ansonluna]

Here are some pics of mine when he was a pup and a little older. I got mine and a yellow tang as my 1st SW fish from Alamo Aquatics. He was very susceptible to ich....but which tang isn't...except yellows. Had him for a year and then, worst mistake ever, introduced a Powder Brown that wiped out the maj of the fish I had with some killer ick. I though I would have him forever...but those things happen. I have been talking to Richard at CB pets and he says he has a distributor that has them in regularly. I am looking for a tiny one to add to my new 60gal, but apparently they are out of season right now. They go out to deeper water during this time of year, so they are hard to net. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ONE!!!! :D

[Mr_Cool]

Nice pics! I'll try to get some of the one I got. I have a Humbug damsel that's just a pain, though. He won't let the tang out of the corner so it's hard to get a good shot.