UseYourInstinct

Hi all, new here.

A friend suggested I post a message to tropical fish experts about my Blue Tang. He is over 16 years old now (its how long I have had him anyways). Seems like a long time.

My aquarium is about 75 gallons. The fish has survived about 40 other fish since I have had him, including several bouts of very poor water conditions and a few diseases that seemed to afflict his tank mates. He seems invincible.

Any comments? How long do tropical fish normally live in aquariums? Thanks.

Oil_Fan

Hi and welcome!!

16 years old??!!!! WOW!!! That's awesome. And I have no idea myself as I just started my salt water tank 2 months ago. But I'm sure Mike or one of the other very knowledgeable people here can answer that.

Do you have any pics?

Lucy

16? That's amazing, congrats.

Mike

I definitely would never consider myself an expert in this hobby, learning new things all the time... But keeping a Paracanthurus hepatus for 16 years is fantastic I would think. It'd be cool if you could post of pic of your tang. I've heard of clownfish and the larger angelfish fish living 20+ years in captivity.

COBettaCouple

Welcome to FishLore!

I'm not sure how long Tangs tend to live, but it sounds like he's a strong fish. Congrats!

sgould

Wow! So...do you pour some Wheaties in the tank with him every morning or what?

agsansoo

I believe clowns reach 30 + in captivity. I would hope Tangs did the same.