Squaretail Bristletooth Tang

Squaretail Bristletooth Tang

Ctenochaetus truncatus

Identification A bristletooth tang, dark brown-olive densely speckled with bright blue dots and fine lines, with a squared-off tail and an orange-rimmed eye. The Indian Ocean counterpart of the Kole Tang.
Maximum Length about 6″
Origin Indian Ocean
Minimum Tank Size 75 Gal.
Reef Compatibility Reef safe

Behavior

An excellent, hardy grazer that works the rockwork constantly for film algae and detritus — one of the best clean-up tangs for a reef. Peaceful with most fish, though it can squabble with other tangs.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivore and detritivore. It grazes film algae and detritus; supplement with dried algae/nori and quality herbivore preparations.

Cautions

Territorial toward other tangs, especially other bristletooths — add tangs together. Needs swimming room and mature rock to graze. The tail scalpel is sharp, so handle with care.