Medium Gem Tang
Transform Your Tank with the Most Jewel-Like Tang in the Saltwater Hobby
Looking for a tang that justifies every dollar and stops every person who sees your tank? The Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum) is widely considered one of the most beautiful and desirable tangs in the world — a jet-black body blanketed in crisp white spots that scatter across the surface like stars, accented by a vivid yellow tail that provides the perfect contrast. Native to the remote Western Indian Ocean, its extremely limited collection range keeps it perpetually rare in the trade and consistently prized by serious collectors. At medium size it's in the ideal acquisition window — established and hardy, actively eating, and with full adult coloration already on display.
Gem Tangs carry the same active, bold personality as other Zebrasoma species — confident swimmers that claim their space in the tank and bring constant movement and energy to a reef system. They're reef safe and generally peaceful with non-tang tankmates, but territorial with other Zebrasoma — introduce carefully and always add last. Feed a nori-heavy diet consistently and that black-and-white coloration stays sharp and saturated for years.
Quick Stats & Care Guide
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Common Name: Gem Tang
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Scientific Name: Zebrasoma gemmatum
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Current Size: Medium
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Care Level: Intermediate to Advanced
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive (territorial with other Zebrasoma tangs)
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Diet: Primarily herbivorous — nori, algae, spirulina; supplement with mysis and pellets
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Reef Safe: Yes
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Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
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Water Conditions: Temp 74–80°F | Sal 1.020–1.025 | pH 8.1–8.4 | High flow | High oxygenation
Why Buy From The Coral Boutique?
Every specimen we ship has been quarantined, conditioned, and eating before it leaves our facility. Gem Tangs are sensitive to shipping stress — ours arrive acclimated and stable, ready to take over their new home from day one.