Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Two Spot Bristletooth Tang has a large distribution across the Indo-Pacific to Australia and Hawaii. Named “Two Spot” because of the pair of spots at the base of its dorsal and anal fins, the Two spot bristletooth tang is a beautiful fish with an orange-brown body, blue eye and faint blueish spots on its face. Members of Ctenochaetus are among some of the most efficient algae grazers and this species is no exception. An adult Twin spot bristletooth tang can reach a size of approximately 8″.
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. Bristletooth tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.
Care Requirements: A minimum 90 gallon aquarium is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters as long as it is upgraded accordingly. This tang enjoys a variety of rock work to graze off of and crevices to take refuge, but should also be provided with some open swimming space. Typically, Ctenochaetus species are only semi-aggressive and territorial in nature toward members of its own genus, 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: XSmall: Less than 2″; Small: 2″ to 3″; Medium: 3″ to 4-1/2″; Large: 4-1/2″ or larger.
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
