Tang in a 46?

cedarreef

cedarreef

Member
I've known some people that have had great success with yellow, purple, kole, and even sailfin tangs in a 46 gal bowfront tank. Can they truly live a healthy life in that size tank? If so, which ones would be a good choice...if any... Any input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
 
aquaknight

aquaknight

Active Member
What do you think/hope, will be different this type around, then from your numerous previous threads about keeping tangs in a 46gal?
 
mie

mie

Active Member
How do you think a large dog would feel living it's whole life in a 4x4 kennel?
The same is the same for these fish my friend, it's not rocket science, keep what is practical and reasonable.
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
SURE! keep a tang in a 46 gallon bowfront. Why don't you live in a 12ft by 12ft room for a few years too?
Just like humans like big homes, so do fish. Just keep that in mind.
 
iluvswfish

iluvswfish

Member
I really wouldn't. I had a yellow in a 45 gallon QT. He was the only fish and minimal decorations and he still paced in the corner constantly, his colors were faded and he was generally stressed. Finally when he was added to the display he is fine and acts normal now. I know it's hard to imagine how big these fish can get when you see them so tiny at the LFS but it's good to see what a grown one looks like before purchase. Trust me, it is not a good feeling to have a fish that is outgrowing it's tank and you have to decide whether you can spend money on an upgrade or give away/sell the fish. I've been in that spot before and am careful not to do it again.
 
nycbob

nycbob

Active Member
lets not get all nasty and sarcastic. the person was simply asking a question. i wouldnt do it in a 46. tangs need open space to swim. most people would say minimum 72 inch long tank. imo, a 4 feet tank will do for most tangs as long as u start them small.
 
coral keeper

coral keeper

Active Member
Originally Posted by CedarReef
http:///forum/post/2790703
I've known some people that have had great success with yellow, purple, kole, and even sailfin tangs in a 46 gal bowfront tank. Can they truly live a healthy life in that size tank? If so, which ones would be a good choice...if any... Any input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
None.
 
calaxa

calaxa

Member
I'm guessing he/she already has his mind made up and just wants one person to confirm it's possible. It is possible for a very short term arrangement. I emphasize short term (QT period, transition while you get a larger setup going, etc.). It will do you and the fish no good to do this though. In the end, you will have a tang that probably will not behave very well and live a shortened existence and you'll just be frustrated. Get at least a 4 foot long tank (75G is smallest?). Even then, the list of tangs you can keep is pretty short (maybe only a yellow). Bear in mind, though he is one of the most peaceful species, he's still a bully and will not take kindly to having too many others in these cramped quarters.
 
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