Mixing Acanthurus Tangs

[Reefing Newbie]

So I have been reading and going through many stock lists for my tank(info in my sig). Many of the websites say that there should only be one tang per tank, which I know it is possible to have multiples in the right sized tank for the individuals. My question would be if I would have long term success with mixing two tangs from the genus Acanthurus. I really like the convict tang and the mimic tangs and atlantic blue tang are really cool. From my understanding, the convict tang is one of the more peaceful tangs. I think mimic tangs are as well not sure, and the atlantic blue tang is in the middle. I would probably add both tangs to my tank at the same time.

 

[Recty]

I wouldnt call mimic tangs passive or peaceful. Mine took a little bit to work himself into the hierarchy of my tank, but once he was there he isnt letting anyone get away with anything.

To answer your question, yes, you can most likely get away with adding two tangs to a 125 reef. Most people wouldnt recommend it, and especially not for a beginner. But it's possible to do. The biggest thing I've found with tangs is you have to be willing to do a little fish swapping if it doesnt work out. One convict tang might be a real jerk and have to go, but the next one you get is pretty peaceful. Maybe he was the runt of the litter? Who knows, but fish definitely have personalities.

If you want the best chance of success with no dead fish and no aggression, add just one tang If you want to risk possible aggression/stress/disease/death, then add another. If you really want to risk it, add another... and so on. Every similar species you add will exponentially increase your chances of problems.

If you're somewhat of a noob to some of the tang species, I'd recommend just adding and being happy with one. Make sure you get him all good and happy and fat, then worry about adding another. Add the least aggressive of your planned fish first, like the convict.

 

[Reefing Newbie]

I really don't want to do three tangs. I would only do three of them I had at least a 180 gallon tank. The addition of fangs is still a ways off. The tank has to sit fallow due to ick from damsels before I actually start adding fish. Damsels came with the tank. I was curious if a convict and Atlantic blue tang combo would last long term? Otherwise I like the mimic rants and a couple of the bristletooth tangs. I knwi for tang mixing they are suppose to look as dissimilar as you can get them to help calm aggression.