| Scientific Name | Ctenochaetus strigosus |
|---|---|
| Identification | Brown body with numerous fine yellow-orange horizontal stripes and a distinctive yellow ring around the eye. |
| Maximum Length | 7 inches |
| Origin | Hawaii / Pacific |
| Minimum Tank Size | 70 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | Reef safe |
Behavior
Peaceful; one of the best beginner tangs. Active grazer that helps control diatoms and nuisance algae.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivore/Detritivore. Grazes constantly on surface films, microalgae, and detritus; supplement with nori.
Dealing with pests? See our guide: How to Beat Hair Algae (Green Hair Algae)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the kole tang reef safe?
Yes, and it’s one of the best algae-grazing tangs for a reef, eating film algae and detritus off rocks with its bristle-like teeth. It won’t harm corals or inverts.
What size tank does a kole tang need?
At least 70 to 90 gallons. It stays smaller than many tangs (about 6 inches) and is one of the more peaceful, making it a great reef workhorse.
Is the kole tang good for beginners?
It’s one of the hardier, more peaceful tangs, so yes for someone with an appropriately sized tank. It’s less aggressive than the yellow or powder blue tang.