Indian Gold Ring Bristletooth Tang

(Ctenochaetus truncatus)

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 Indian Gold Ring Bristletooth Tang are also known as the Indian Gold Ring Bristletooth Surgeonfish. Occasionally seen in the aquarium trade. The Indian Gold Ring Bristletooth Tang are quite lovely with light blue to bright yellow spots on their head, body and the base of its dorsal fin with a bright yellow ring around its eyes against an orange to brown color body. 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

  • Care: CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFlake FoodFlake Food DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietLive FoodLive Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightHighHigh