Small Gold Rim White Cheek Tang (2.5–3.5")
Transform Your Tank with a Striking Pacific Tang That Rewards the Dedicated Reefer
Looking for a tang with the bold, dark elegance of an Achilles but with its own unmistakable identity? The Gold Rim White Cheek Tang (Acanthurus nigricans) is a standout in the Acanthurus family — a deep, velvety dark body accented by a crisp white cheek patch and gold-rimmed fin edging that gives it a refined, high-contrast appearance that turns heads in any saltwater aquarium. At 2.5–3.5" you're acquiring this specimen at a young, formative stage — an opportunity to grow it out in your system and watch it develop into a full adult display piece on your timeline.
Like its Acanthurus relatives, the Gold Rim White Cheek is an advanced keeper that demands respect. It requires pristine water quality, very high flow and oxygenation, and a low-stress environment — it is susceptible to ich and does not tolerate suboptimal conditions. For the experienced reefer with a mature, well-oxygenated system, it is an extraordinarily rewarding long-term resident that only becomes more impressive with size and age.
Quick Stats & Care Guide
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Common Name: Gold Rim White Cheek Tang / Whitecheek Surgeonfish
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Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigricans
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Current Size: Small — 2.5–3.5"
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Care Level: Advanced
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Temperament: Aggressive (territorial with other Acanthurus 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 74–79°F | Sal 1.020–1.025 | pH 8.1–8.4 | Very high flow | Maximum oxygenation | Pristine water quality required
Why Buy From The Coral Boutique?
Every specimen we ship has been quarantined, conditioned, and eating before it leaves our facility. Acanthurus tangs are among the most sensitive specimens in transit — ours receive extra care in handling and packing so yours arrives stable and ready for a smooth acclimation into your system.
