We recently shared the story of Florida-based Surge Marine Life joining the ranks of aquaculture facilities that have successfully produced and sold captive-bred Purple Tangs (Zebrasoma xanthurum).
But now, Surge founder Kevin Barden shared a personal reflection as he announced to the world that his small company has achieved another milestone: becoming the newest producer of captive-bred Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus).
But the most exciting part is that these are offspring of the Yellow-Belly, or Indian Ocean variant of the species; Barden’s broodstock originated from the shores of Kenya. Should taxonomists ever decide to split the Pacific and Indian Ocean populations of this species into two, then Surge Marine Life would automatically lay claim to a new “species first” as well!
So, even though captive-bred Pacific Blue Tangs have appeared on and off in the aquarium trade, primarily through production at Biota Aquariums, these new offerings from Surge Marine Life are subtly different. Barden anticipates it will be at least two years for his new babies to start showing off their yellow understides!
Check out the pictures and the story!
This one gives me goosebumps.
This fish has defined my career and directed my life for nearly 15 years. Through literal trials and tribulations, the highest of highs, the lowest of lows, and everything in between.
After 5 years of intensive experimentation with a 100% failure rate, in 2016 I was fortunate to be a part of a small group of researchers at the University of Florida’s Tropical Aquaculture Lab that successfully reared this fish in captivity for the first time. It was only 27 individuals, but it was such a monumental milestone for our industry.
I’ve moved my family thousands of miles to the middle of the Pacific Ocean and back chasing the dream of one day bringing this fish to commercial market. To do it this way, working for myself alongside my wife, is something I never imagined being possible.
I am so deeply honored and humbled to present to you today, Surge Marine Life captive-bred Yellow Belly Blue Tangs!
Available now, and like everything we offer, they come with free shipping and are disease-free with a 14-day guarantee! Ready to go straight into your display tank, no quarantine necessary!
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