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Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis)

Ctenochaetus tominiensis is a relatively small surgeonfish that is better suited for medium-sized marine aquariums than many other surgeonfish. The adult fish has a brownish-grey body, bright orange edges on its dorsal and anal fins, and a pale tail.

The species uses its brush-like teeth to constantly graze on rocks and other surfaces. It eats algae growth and especially biofilm that forms on surfaces, making it a useful fish in a reef aquarium.

Characteristics

- Grows to about 15–16 cm in length

- Active algae and biofilm grazer

- One of the smaller surgeonfish

- Needs plenty of swimming space and rock surfaces for grazing

- Can be territorial towards other surgeonfish

Care instructions

Minimum aquarium: approx. 300 l

Temperature: 24–27 °C

Salinity: 1.023–1.026

Feeding: varied vegetarian diet. Regularly offer seaweed (nori) and algae-based foods, as well as mysis shrimp, artemia, and other small protein-rich foods.

Compatibility: compatible with most reef fish. May behave aggressively towards other surgeonfish and especially similar species.

Reef safe: yes, reef safe

Additional information

Scientific name: Ctenochaetus tominiensis

Origin: Western Pacific

Maximum size: approx. 15–16 cm

Difficulty level: medium