The Mimic Eibli Tang, also known as the Mimic Surgeonfish, is named for its remarkable ability to imitate the coloration of the Eibli Dwarf Angelfish (Centropyge eibli) during its juvenile stage. This mimicry provides natural protection from predators in the wild. As the fish matures, the coloration becomes uniquely its own, displaying:
Striking orange vertical striping
Yellow-orange belly transitioning to darker tones
A bold, black caudal fin
Warm, golden highlights along the facial and body contours
This species is an excellent algae grazer and a visually striking addition to reef or fish-only systems.
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Intermediate
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Adult Size: ~8 inches
The Mimic Eibli Tang is highly aggressive toward other tangs, especially those of similar shape or color (Acanthurus species). In most home aquariums, it should be kept as the only tang, unless housed in extra-large systems where multiple tangs are introduced simultaneously.
Provides excellent algae control but requires ample swimming space and strong filtration.
Although it will consume meaty foods offered to the tank, it is essential that the Mimic Eibli Tang receives frequent marine-based algae and seaweed to maintain:
Immune strength
Stable coloration
Reduced aggression
Long-term health
Feed at least 3× per week:
Nori sheets (Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, Ocean Nutrition)
Spirulina herbivore pellets
Mysis or brine shrimp (supplemental only)
Macroalgae
Large reef tanks (90–125+ gallons)
Systems needing algae control
Aquarists comfortable managing semi-aggressive tangs
Displays featuring bold, high-contrast fish coloration
The Mimic Eibli Tang, also known as the Mimic Surgeonfish, is named for its remarkable ability to imitate the coloration of the Eibli Dwarf Angelfish (Centropyge eibli) during its juvenile stage. This mimicry provides natural protection from predators in the wild. As the fish matures, the coloration becomes uniquely its own, displaying:
Striking orange vertical striping
Yellow-orange belly transitioning to darker tones
A bold, black caudal fin
Warm, golden highlights along the facial and body contours
This species is an excellent algae grazer and a visually striking addition to reef or fish-only systems.
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Intermediate
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Adult Size: ~8 inches
The Mimic Eibli Tang is highly aggressive toward other tangs, especially those of similar shape or color (Acanthurus species). In most home aquariums, it should be kept as the only tang, unless housed in extra-large systems where multiple tangs are introduced simultaneously.
Provides excellent algae control but requires ample swimming space and strong filtration.
Although it will consume meaty foods offered to the tank, it is essential that the Mimic Eibli Tang receives frequent marine-based algae and seaweed to maintain:
Immune strength
Stable coloration
Reduced aggression
Long-term health
Feed at least 3× per week:
Nori sheets (Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, Ocean Nutrition)
Spirulina herbivore pellets
Mysis or brine shrimp (supplemental only)
Macroalgae
Large reef tanks (90–125+ gallons)
Systems needing algae control
Aquarists comfortable managing semi-aggressive tangs
Displays featuring bold, high-contrast fish coloration
