Description
White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda) is an attractive marine surgeonfish known for its elongated body, fine bristle-like teeth, and distinctive pale tail coloration. It is an active algae grazer that constantly browses live rock and aquarium surfaces, helping control film algae and detritus. This species is well suited to mature reef aquariums with abundant grazing surfaces, stable water quality, and plenty of swimming space.
Lighting
Moderate to high
Normal reef lighting is suitable. Strong lighting encourages natural algae growth on live rock, providing additional grazing opportunities.
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Middle to lower reef
Provide extensive live rock, open swimming areas, and plenty of surfaces for grazing. Maintain sufficient swimming space around the rockwork.
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.025–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
7–9 dKH
Consistency is more important than maintaining a specific value.
Calcium
420–450 ppm
Magnesium
1280–1380 ppm
Flow
Moderate to strong, turbulent flow
Provide strong circulation throughout the aquarium to maintain oxygenation and prevent detritus accumulation. Multiple flow directions help create a natural environment for this active swimmer.
Diet
Primarily Herbivorous + Frequent Grazing
Bristletooth Tangs use specialized comb-like teeth to collect fine algae, detritus, and microorganisms from rock surfaces.
Supplemental foods:
Nori seaweed
Marine algae sheets
Spirulina-based foods
Herbivore marine pellets
Algae-based flakes
Vegetable-based frozen preparations
Microalgae-rich foods
Offer algae-based foods daily, supplemented with occasional meaty foods such as mysis shrimp. Allow frequent grazing throughout the day.
Adult Size (up to)
Approximately 12–15 cm (5–6 inches)
Growth Rate
Moderate
Care Level
Intermediate
Reef Compatibility
Reef-safe
Generally compatible with SPS corals, LPS corals, soft corals, zoanthids, and most ornamental invertebrates. It primarily feeds on algae and organic material rather than coral tissue.
Temperament
Peaceful to semi-aggressive
Generally peaceful toward unrelated fish but can become territorial toward other tangs, particularly other Bristletooth Tangs or similarly shaped surgeonfish. Introduce carefully and provide sufficient swimming space.
Special Requirements
Provide mature live rock with abundant natural algae growth.
Offer regular marine algae feedings to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Maintain excellent water quality and strong oxygenation.
Provide open swimming areas and multiple grazing surfaces.
Avoid keeping with overly aggressive tangs that may prevent it from feeding.
Use a secure aquarium cover to reduce jumping risk.
Monitor body condition to ensure it receives sufficient food.
