Tang(s) issues

Current stock in my 125 is Majestic, Purple tang, Yellow tang, Blue tang, 2 Blue Chromis, and 2 Ocelaris. The problem I have is the Purple tang has turned into bully. He keeps the yellow tang at one end of the tank just hanging out beside the power head and keeps picking at the Blue tang as well. The blue tang takes it pretty well as he is much smaller and doesnt seem to pay much attention to it but the yellow and purple fight contantly. They have been together for about 3-4 months. Both were added at the same time. Both fish often have wounds from their battles. However, they eat side by side without issues. Is there a way to cure this? Id like to see the yellow tang be more active in the tank. Thanks all.

 

bump

 

That is expected. It is rare that tangs of the same family (Zebrasoma) can coexists in a tank of that size without fighting.

J

 

Thanks for the reply. But I have seen this done in other tanks. Yellow and Purple tangs living side by side like best friends. I am contemplating selling the purple tang and letting the yellow get a little more comfortable before i introduce another purple. Or I might just move the purple to QT and wait a couple weeks before moving him back. Thoughts? Will it help?

 

Oh yes I agree I've seen schools of yellow tangs. I've had 2 of the Naso family in my 400G without fighting. But the norm is that they will fight. Unfortunately in your case it hasn't worked. Not sure if separation will work but it's worth a try. you may also want to just to a bit of minor aquascaping that sometimes does the trick

J

 

Ive both added and taken away aquascape in a attempt to throw the purple tang off. Nothing has worked. Hes doin everything he can to become king of the tank. Before he decides he can push around my Majestic I think it might be time for a reality check.

 

Purples have been known to become bullies in a tank.

 

I think you are coming to terms with the fact the Purple Tang may need to find a new home and I believe you would be making the right decision to remove the bully

 

if you plan to do that you need to add the tangs both at the same time.

 

He did added them at the same time.
And I agree, it might be time to find the purple a new home.