Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tang

(Ctenochaetus striatus)

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 Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tang are also known as the Orange Stripe Bristletooth Surgeonfish. Rarely seen in the aquarium trade. Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tangs are an olive brown color with horizontal thin brown stripes and orange spots on their head. They can grow to a little over 10".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 180 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