Short Tail Bristletooth Tang

Ctenochaetus Tangs should be added to aquariums with plenty of swim room and rockwork, caves and crevices for grazing and hiding. Tank size should be considered before purchasing as the adult Ctenochaetus Tangs can become quite large. Also known as surgeon fish because of the sharp spine at the base of their tail. This "scalpel" is used for protection, handle carefully as it is very sharp. considered reef safe but may pick at small, mobile and sessile invertebrates if not well fed. Provide a varied diet of algae based foods including Spirulina and nori. Ctenochaetus Tangs have been known to be aggressive towards similarly shaped Tangs. House with other peaceful tank mates that will not nip at fins.

The Short Tail Bristletooth Tang are also known as the Short Tail Bristletooth Surgeonfish. Not often seen in the aquarium trade. Juvenile and adult Short Tail Bristletooth Tangs will have different color patterns. Juveniles are a quite beautiful bright yellow color as they mature they begin to turn brown with light spots on its head on chest, light colored thin lines on its body, blue mouth and yellow ring around its eyes. They can grow to a little over 6".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 70 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH