With the new Finding Dory movie upon us we are being treated to all the magic that Disney is well known for. We are sure it is going to be a beloved, heartwarming movie just like Finding Nemo was 13 years ago…wow, was it that long?
The interesting thing about these movies is that the characters are based on actual living marine life…Nemo is a Clownfish, and Dory is a Blue Hippo Tang.
Dory actually goes by several names: Blue Hippo Tang, Regal Tang, Pacific Blue Tang, Blue Surgeonfish, Palette Surgeonfish, and of course it’s scientific name: Paracanthurus hepatus.
After seeing the movie, you might find that your children encourage you to go out and buy Dory. Unless your child asks using the scientific name of Paracanthurus hepatus, I’d gently suggest that you consider starting with a less demanding species than Dory.
As a company who makes their living selling beautiful sea creatures… including Blue Hippo Tangs… it might seem inconsistent that we are urging you not to buy Dory. Let me explain.
The Blue Hippo Tang is a difficult fish to keep in captivity. It is beautiful, yes, but it requires a very large aquarium (180 gallons), pristine water conditions, and someone who is knowledgeable about the care and husbandry of this delicate fish. It is not for beginners.
In almost the same breath, however, I would encourage you and your family to explore the wonderful world of aquarium keeping. There are plenty of suitable fish that look like Dory, and are easy to keep, and fascinating to watch. Check out the Yellow Tail Blue Damsel for example, as a great option. And if you are considering Nemo, please consider an aquacultured Clownfish. These fish are bred in captivity so they are not taken from the wild reefs. They are typically healthier, hardier and used to life in an aquarium.
So, please start up that new aquarium. Please enjoy our hobby and all it has to offer. But please, unless you are an experienced aquarist, let Dory swim in the ocean until you are ready to give it the care it requires.
The interesting thing about these movies is that the characters are based on actual living marine life…Nemo is a Clownfish, and Dory is a Blue Hippo Tang.
Dory actually goes by several names: Blue Hippo Tang, Regal Tang, Pacific Blue Tang, Blue Surgeonfish, Palette Surgeonfish, and of course it’s scientific name: Paracanthurus hepatus.
After seeing the movie, you might find that your children encourage you to go out and buy Dory. Unless your child asks using the scientific name of Paracanthurus hepatus, I’d gently suggest that you consider starting with a less demanding species than Dory.
As a company who makes their living selling beautiful sea creatures… including Blue Hippo Tangs… it might seem inconsistent that we are urging you not to buy Dory. Let me explain.
The Blue Hippo Tang is a difficult fish to keep in captivity. It is beautiful, yes, but it requires a very large aquarium (180 gallons), pristine water conditions, and someone who is knowledgeable about the care and husbandry of this delicate fish. It is not for beginners.
In almost the same breath, however, I would encourage you and your family to explore the wonderful world of aquarium keeping. There are plenty of suitable fish that look like Dory, and are easy to keep, and fascinating to watch. Check out the Yellow Tail Blue Damsel for example, as a great option. And if you are considering Nemo, please consider an aquacultured Clownfish. These fish are bred in captivity so they are not taken from the wild reefs. They are typically healthier, hardier and used to life in an aquarium.
So, please start up that new aquarium. Please enjoy our hobby and all it has to offer. But please, unless you are an experienced aquarist, let Dory swim in the ocean until you are ready to give it the care it requires.