Fish to tank size

I've been doing a lot of reasearch on fish compatability and actually have gotten a chart from some one on this forum which has been a great help, however, I'm again unsure about something.

When looking at fish, how relevant is minimum tank size? The only reason I ask is my buddy owns a store and I bought a yellow tang cause he said he'd be fine, which he is. I'm just confused on the fact that everywhere I look it says a fish like that needs 100 gallons but he's doing just fine.

 

Very important to the overall heath, well-being, and long term result with any given fish.

Careful what doors you open...

 

I agree with evolved, with this caveat: there seems to be a large swing between sources as to what is the exact minimum tank size. For instance, a hippo tang is listed as 125 on LA.com, while a few(a lot actually) other sites list the minimum as 75 gallons. I would err on the side of caution and go with the more conservative estimate.

Also in your situation, you may never have a problem. You may however see aggression climb as the fish gets cramped in the tank, but maybe not. Just be prepared for it when it happens. You can either re-home the fish or upgrade tanks.

 

agree with points posted, from personal exp. as a newer reefer I had bought a Hippo for a 55g tank. It was small and I felt it was fine and had lots of room. It ate like a pig, doubled in size fairly quickly and then got really aggresive towards my other fish as it became cramped. It was a pita to get it out and I learned my lesson.

those "recommended minimal tank size" labels are there for definite reasons. That is not to say that you "can't" add whatever you like to a tank, but the overall health of your fish and tank may suffer as the fish grows past your capacity.

it's best to have a plan to support a fish's adult size if you want them & your tank to stay comfortable & healthy.

 

I could be wrong but I think tangs usually flourish in tanks 75 gallons and over, and you have a 75... so you aren't too bad. It's not like throwing a tang in a 20 and saying its ok cause hes the only fish

 

Tanks of 100g+ are usually recommended for Tangs as many of them grow up to a foot or more. A 75g usually has a depth of 18" I believe, but still, a foot long fish in that depth would not be healthy or happy. A 48"+ long is recommended length (which is ok for the 75g) but def you'll need more depth as they grow to adulthood. If I saw someone with a full grown Tang in a 75g I would deem them irresponsible def. But as others mentioned you can upgrade as they get bigger so the fish is comfortable.