Feel guilty about new Tang

[tencwhiskey]

Hi folks I have a 72 gallon, I recently went to the LFS and the wife wanted a blue hippo tang. I did not go there to get a fish so I did no research on it and just asked the store if it was ok and they of course said yes. Now I read more and realize my tank is way to small for it. Right now it's only about 2 inches at most. So I'm
Sure it's ok for now. Should I take it back now? (If they will let me) or should I keep it for awhile. I don't wanna keep it where it's going to hate its life. Thanks

 

[TJ's Reef]

Good to be concerned and aware of our livestock's needs but it will be just fine or a couple of years +- especially if the aquascape allows for swimming room and interest for it. You'll want to mainly feed it mixed seaweed/Nori for its dietary needs and having a fair amount of current will go along way in keeping it happy and healthy.

Cheers, Todd

 

[jduck]

Depends on the dimentions of your tank, and other tank mates.

 

[Marshall O]

I'm assuming the tank is a 72 bowfront, which are 4' long. If so, I agree that it should be ok until it is maybe 6" long. So you don't have to catch it right now, however if anyone near you is looking for one and has a large enough tank (ideally 180 or larger), that would be the time to re-home it. Kudos to you for trying to do the right thing either way!

 

[Dustyboots]

I saw some nickle-sized hippos (so freakin cute) at my LFS last week... Saw other hippo tangs at 9" long also! That's the thing with salty tanks; it's too easy to fall in love...