Yellow Kole Eye Tang

(Ctenochaetus strigosus)

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 Yellow Kole Eye Tang are also known as the Yellow Kole Eye Surgeonfish. Commonly seen in the aquarium trade. As its name implies this gem has a yellow ring around its eyes, thin horizontal blue stripes against a purple to brown colored body. They can grow to a little over 6".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 125 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 CareEasyEasy
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFlake FoodFlake Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightHighHigh