Maculiceps Tang (Acanthurus Maculiceps)

Also Known As: Maculiceps Surgeonfish, White-Face Tang

Compatibility and Behavior
The Maculiceps Tang (Acanthurus maculiceps) is a high-energy grazer that's also one of the cutest Tang species in our opinion, with distinct yellow-gold "freckles" on its face. This adorable species features a dusky gray to brown body with those contrasting freckles, and subtle yellow highlights on the dorsal and caudal areas. More defined freckling will appear with age, settling into that refined white-face look that sets the species apart from other tangs. Temperament-wise, Maculiceps tend to be semi-aggressive and can get assertive toward other tangs and similarly shaped herbivores, especially in tight quarters or when food is short. They're typically reef safe, spending most of the day grazing film and filamentous algae off rock and hard surfaces rather than picking at corals or ornamental inverts, though an underfed or stressed individual may occasionally nip. With thoughtful stocking and room to swim, they usually coexist well with robust community fish like clownfish, fairy and flasher wrasses, Anthias, and differently shaped tangs, as long as there's enough rockwork to break up lines of sight.

Aquarium Requirements
Maculiceps are active swimmers that love long, open runs and mature rockwork, so they're best kept in established systems with generous horizontal space. For medium specimens in the 2.5 to 3.5 inch range, a tank around 120 gallons with a long footprint is a solid starting point, with larger volumes strongly recommended for Lg and XL fish and for long-term comfort. Aquascape with a balance of open water columns and substantial live rock that provides natural grazing surfaces, arches, ledges, and shaded caves where the fish can retreat and sleep at night. Strong, well-oxygenated flow and robust filtration help support their high activity level and keep water quality stable. Regular feedings of nori, marine algae, and varied herbivore foods will help maintain their body weight, color, and calm demeanor while keeping aggression toward tankmates in check.

Specifications
Approximate Size: Smd: 2-2.5", Md: 2.5–3.5", Lg: 3.5–4.5", XL: 4.5–5.5"
Diet: Primarily herbivorous. Marine algae, nori, and spirulina-based foods, with supplemental frozen mysis shrimp
Origin: Indo-Pacific reef regions
Care Level: Intermediate
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; may be territorial toward other tangs and similarly shaped grazers
Minimum Tank Size: Medium specimens can start around 120 gallons, but plan to scale up to 150 gallons or more as they grow
Special Considerations: An active swimmer that needs long, open swimming room and mature rockwork