Blue Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)

The Iconic Reef Fish 🐠
The Blue Hippo Tang—also known as the Regal Tang, Palette Surgeonfish, or the beloved “Dory” from Finding Nemo—is one of the most recognizable and popular saltwater fish in the hobby. With its vibrant royal blue body, bold black pattern, and bright yellow tail, this fish brings unmatched beauty and activity to any marine aquarium.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Striking blue, black, and yellow coloration

• Active swimmer that adds constant movement to your reef

• Reef-safe and peaceful with most tankmates

• A hardy, long-lived fish once fully acclimated

• A true centerpiece species for any large aquarium

Care Requirements:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (may show territorial behavior with other tangs)

• Reef Safe: Yes – does not bother corals or most invertebrates

• Diet: Primarily herbivore – feed marine algae, nori sheets, spirulina-based pellets, and supplement with mysis/brine shrimp

• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons (requires lots of swimming space)

• Water Parameters: 72–78°F, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.023–1.025

• Size: Can reach up to 12 inches as an adult (juveniles typically sold at 1–3 inches)

Stocking Tip:
Best kept singly unless in very large systems. Avoid housing with other tangs of similar shape/color to minimize aggression.