Short Tail Bristletooth Tang – Ctenochaetus cyanocheilus
Physical & Behavioral Description
The Short Tail Bristletooth Tang features a sleek brown to golden body accented by fine striping, subtle spotting on the head, and distinctive blue lips and fin edging that give it a unique, refined appearance. Juveniles often display brighter yellow tones that deepen into richer hues with maturity. This species remains relatively compact for a tang, typically reaching around 6 inches, and is constantly active as it grazes on surfaces. Generally peaceful, it may show mild territorial behavior toward similar tangs but is well-suited for community reef aquariums.
Suitable Tank Description
A minimum aquarium size of 75 gallons is recommended, with larger systems preferred to provide ample swimming room and grazing opportunities. This species thrives in established reef tanks with stable parameters, strong flow, and abundant live rock for natural foraging and shelter. It is best added after the tank has matured, and care should be taken when introducing other tangs to minimize territorial disputes.
Diet Description
A herbivorous grazer that requires a steady supply of marine algae and high-quality prepared foods. Offer a varied diet including frozen foods such as Ocean Nutrition Formula 2, Rod's Food Herbivore Blend, and San Francisco Brand's Emerald Entree, along with pellets such as New Life Spectrum's Algaemax Pellets. Regular feedings of Julian Sprung’s Sea Veggies are highly recommended to support digestion, maintain coloration, and promote overall health.
Approximate Product Size (in inches):
1.25 – 1.75 inches
We maintain a rigorous, veterinarian-approved quarantine program that includes proactive treatments, careful observation, and daily monitoring to ensure the highest standards of fish health. Our biosecurity practices reduce the risk of any cross-contamination between systems, meaning our fish are ready for your display tanks.
