Lieutenant × Orange Shoulder Hybrid Tang

A rare and highly desirable hybrid tang that combines the best characteristics of both the Lieutenant Tang (Acanthurus tennentii) and the Orange Shoulder Tang (Acanthurus olivaceus). Featuring unique coloration, impressive size potential, and constant activity, this hybrid is a true collector's fish and an exceptional centerpiece for larger reef aquariums.

🟢 Quarantined (Minimum 2 Weeks) – Fully Conditioned & Eating

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
• Size: Ranging from approximately 4–14 inches at adult size

Behavior & Husbandry

The Lieutenant × Orange Shoulder Hybrid Tang is an active, open-water swimmer that requires significant swimming space and mature rockwork for grazing. Like its parent species, it spends much of the day cruising the aquarium while constantly picking at algae and biofilm.

As it matures, coloration and patterning often continue to develop, making each specimen unique. Some individuals may display traits more heavily influenced by one parent species, while others show a striking blend of both.

This hybrid thrives in larger aquariums with strong water movement, excellent oxygenation, and stable water quality.

Like most tangs, it may become territorial toward other tangs, especially similarly shaped Acanthurus species.

Feeding & Diet

Primarily herbivorous with omnivorous tendencies.

What We Feed at Lush Corals:

• Nori
• Frozen mysis shrimp
• Enriched frozen foods
• High-quality pellets

In Your Aquarium:

• Nori or macroalgae
• Herbivore pellets
• Frozen foods

Frequent feeding and regular access to algae-based foods help maintain body condition, coloration, and long-term health.

Compatibility Notes

Compatible with:

• Wrasses
• Angelfish
• Foxfaces
• Clownfish
• Most reef-safe fish

Use caution with:

• Other Acanthurus tangs
• Similar-shaped algae grazers
• Multiple tangs in undersized aquariums

Best housed in large, mature aquariums with ample swimming room and established rockwork.

What Makes This Fish Special?

Hybrid tangs are uncommon in the aquarium trade and highly sought after by collectors. The Lieutenant × Orange Shoulder Hybrid Tang offers a unique combination of coloration, patterning, and personality that cannot be found in either parent species alone.

Because every hybrid develops differently, each specimen is truly one of a kind.

Lush Corals Quarantine & Conditioning Process

This fish has completed our full quarantine and conditioning protocol (minimum 2 weeks) prior to being made available.

During this process, each fish is:

• Carefully observed and stabilized
• Proactively treated and monitored
• Conditioned onto prepared foods
• Verified to be actively eating and thriving

This extended process significantly reduces stress and increases long-term success, ensuring you receive a fish that is healthy, stable, and truly ready for your reef.

We don’t rush fish to market—every quarantined fish we offer has been given the time it needs to succeed in your aquarium.