Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Chevron Tang, also known as the Hawaiian Bristletooth Tang, are found in the Pacific Ocean around Oceania, Micronesia and the Hawaiian Islands. As juveniles, the Chevron tang is an incredibly eye-catching species. They have a bright orange body with a purple-blue maze pattern throughout and purple dorsal and anal fins. Adults look nothing like juveniles, as they are predominately dark olive-black in color with bluish-tan horizontal lines throughout. Both age groups are striking in their own way! Members of Ctenochaetus are among some of the most efficient algae grazers and this species is no exception. An adult Chevron tang can reach a size of approximately 11″. Note: Most specimens within the aquarium trade are collected around Hawaii, therefore making the availability of this species in the future currently unknown.

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. Chevron tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.

Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal for juvenile specimens. An adult Chevron tang will require more space. A Chevron tang will be intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes, and will not endure deteriorating water parameters. 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. A Chevron tang would thrive best in an aquarium that has been set up for a minimum of 8 months to a year in order to provide such a healthy abundance of natural algae growth, which is one key component to the success of keeping this fish. 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:

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.