Can Yellow Tang Live With White Cloud Mountain Minnow?
Incompatible temperatures. Yellow Tang needs 75–82°F, White Cloud Mountain Minnow needs 60–72°F.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Yellow Tang | White Cloud Mountain Minnow | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F | 60–72°F | No overlap ✗ |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 | 6–8 | No overlap ✗ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 8" | 1.5" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 75 gal | 10 gal | 75 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
Yellow Tang
Zebrasoma flavescens
The yellow tang is the most iconic reef tank fish — a solid lemon-yellow disc that constantly grazes algae across the rock work. They are active, hardy, and excellent algae controllers for reef tanks. However, they need large tanks (75+ gallons minimum), can be aggressive toward similar-shaped fish, and have become significantly more expensive following collection bans in Hawaii.
Full care guide →White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Tanichthys albonubes
White cloud mountain minnows are hardy, colorful cold-water fish that are perfect for unheated aquariums and goldfish companions. Their small size, brilliant red fins, and iridescent lateral line make them surprisingly attractive for such a hardy, easy-to-keep species. They are one of the few truly cold-water schooling fish available in the hobby.
Full care guide →