Purple and Yellow tang together?

[jaybfresh]

I'm really interested in getting a purple tang at my LFS, but I already have a yellow tang in my tank (72x18x18). Technically, the yellow tang is in there temporarily until a friend sets up his tank after he moved, but no idea how long it will actually be staying.

Am I asking for trouble if I add the purple tang? The yellow tang is a little bigger (6") than the purple (4.5") and has been in the tank for about a week.

 

[reidcrandall]

There is a good chance that one will be bullied to death. The shapes are too similar. Usually, people that keep these two will have a rally big tank.

 

[jackryan]

I think they would work out... but don't if you think the risk is significant and you cannot take it.

 

[fishyheaven]

i have both in a 215 and they are fine with each other. The yellow was added last and its about 2inches bigger. However the risk is higher since they are similar shape.

 

[Eric the half-bee]

I have 2 purples and a yellow among 10 other various sized tangs in a 400 gal. The purple & yellow ignore each other. I don't know what would happen in a smaller tank.

 

[pheromo]

In my 350 added same size purple tang into tank and yellow tang ripped him to shreds in a night. Got yellow out and gave away with warning sign.

 

[OldNemo]

Any way you can confine him within the 150g to see how they react?

I would just wait until the yellow is removed before adding the Purple. I am much more partial to PTs. Good luck

 

[Bcamp]

I did'nt have any luck. as soon as they were put in the went at it. Tried to add them at the same time. I think its hit or miss.