Tomini Tang

Quick Stats

Description

The Tomini Tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis), also known as the Tomini Surgeonfish or Tomini Bristletooth Tang, is a popular and hardy reef fish well-suited for both beginner and advanced aquarists. This attractive tang is recognized by its sleek brown body, white tail, and bright yellow fins, which provide a unique and pleasing contrast. Although it is one of the smaller tang species, its active personality and efficient algae-grazing habits make it a great addition to many marine aquariums.

Native to the waters of the Indo-Pacific, the Tomini Tang can grow up to 6 inches in length. Despite its modest size, it still requires a minimum tank size of 70 gallons to provide enough swimming room and territory. It is a peaceful species that coexists well with other fish, especially when housed in a reef tank environment. Due to its herbivorous diet, it is an excellent choice for controlling algae growth in reef setups, making it a great option for a reef-compatible tank.

As a herbivore, the Tomini Tang feeds primarily on algae in the wild. In the home aquarium, it will eagerly consume marine-based algae and may also accept prepared foods like spirulina, nori, and vegetable-based pellets. It’s important to provide a well-balanced diet to keep it healthy and prevent aggression or stress.

The Tomini Tang is an easy-care fish, making it ideal for aquarists of all skill levels. It thrives in a stable environment with water conditions such as a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 72-78°F, and a pH of 8.1-8.4. Regular water changes and proper filtration will help ensure its continued health and well-being.

This tang is known for being less aggressive compared to other tang species, making it a great candidate for a community tank. It can coexist peacefully with other fish, although it’s best to avoid keeping multiple tangs in smaller aquariums to prevent territorial disputes.