Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Striped Bristletooth Tang, also known as the Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tang, has a wide distribution across the Pacific Ocean and is the only species in this genus found as far as the Red Sea. Members of Ctenochaetus are among some of the most efficient algae grazers and this species is no exception. An adult Striped bristletooth tang has an overall olive colored body, a maze of thin blue lines running the length of its body, and orange spots predominately around its eye. A juvenile, on the other hand, is characteristic of the name ‘Orange stripe bristletooth tang’ as several, pronounced orange stripes run the length of its blue-grey body; the orange color of these stripes disappear with maturation into an adult. A Striped bristletooth tang can reach a size of approximately 10″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild tangs are primarily herbivorous. A diet largely consisting of algae-based foods is absolutely necessary to maintain optimal health, coloration, immune function, and reduce aggression. Vegetable based flake foods or frozen foods, that may also include spirulina algae, are excellent options. We also recommend offering dried seaweed on a rock or clip three times a week minimum. Striped bristletooth tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters (no less than 75 gallons) as long as it is upgraded accordingly. This tang enjoys a variety of rock work and crevices to take refuge, but also should be provided with some open swimming space. Striped bristletooth tangs are often sought after to add to a reef aquarium for their natural tendency to constantly graze upon algae build up. Typically, Ctenochaetus species are only semi-aggressive and territorial in nature toward each other, often behaving peacefully toward other tank-mates. However, if you want to house various types of tangs together, it is best to add them all at once, or closely together at the very least, for the best success. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2″ to 3″; Medium; 3″ to 4″; Large: 4″ to 5″; XLarge; 5″ to 6″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.