The Tomini Bristletooth Tang ( Ctenochaetus tominiensis ) is an extremely popular and useful tang for saltwater aquariums, especially medium-sized tanks. It impresses with its compact size, peaceful nature, and excellent ability to remove algae and microorganisms. This makes it not only an attractive addition to the aquarium but also an important helper in maintaining a stable, clean, and healthy environment.

Features

• Size: Adult fish reach a length of about 1315 cm significantly smaller than many other surgeonfish.

• Coloration: Ctenochaetus tominiensis has an elegant brown-gold base color with fine spots and contrasting white to yellowish fin tips. The striking white edges of the caudal and dorsal fins are particularly noticeable, making it instantly recognizable.

• Behavior: The Tomini Bristletooth Tang is an active swimmer and spends most of the day grazing on rock formations, substrate, and reef columns for algae and detritus. Its peaceful nature makes it an ideal tank mate for community aquariums.

Posture & Care

• Aquarium size: 350 liters or more are recommended. Open swimming areas combined with reef structures and hiding places create optimal conditions. Naturally grown algae significantly facilitates acclimation.

• Water parameters: Temperature: 2427 C | pH value: 8.08.4 | Density: 1.0221.025

• Socialization: Ctenochaetus tominiensis is a very peaceful surgeonfish that gets along well with other non-aggressive species. Keeping it with other surgeonfish is possible in large tanks, but should be done carefully.

Food

The Tomini bristletooth tang feeds primarily on microalgae and detritus, which it grazes with its fine bristles. As a supplement, frozen and dried plant-based foods such as nori seaweed, spirulina, or leafy greens should be offered. Fine vegetables are also readily accepted.

Special Features & Benefits

Due to its compact size, Ctenochaetus tominiensis is an excellent choice for medium-sized aquariums where larger tang species won’t fit. It actively contributes to algae control, supports the biological balance, and its peaceful nature makes it an ideal community fish. At the same time, it impresses with its elegant appearance and high hardiness.

Conclusion: The Tomini Bristletooth Tang is an active, peaceful, and extremely useful inhabitant of saltwater aquariums. With its compact size, effective algae control, and ease of care, Ctenochaetus tominiensis is an excellent choice for aquarists who want to maintain a clean and healthy reef tank.