Orange Striped Bristletooth Tang

About this fish

Orange Striped Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus striatus) is a bristletooth tang for the home saltwater aquarium. In practice, it’s kept for its active, algae-grazing behavior and reef-oriented presence, helping to graze on nuisance algae while adding bold color and motion to a tank. Because tangs are energetic swimmers, this fish is best used as a centerpiece grazing fish in a well-planned saltwater setup with open swimming room and appropriate tankmates.

Features:

• Active, fast-moving algae grazer that benefits from daily feeding with seaweed and algae-based foods
• Uses bristle-like mouthparts typical of bristletooth tangs to graze and forage
• Has a sharp spine near the tail, so handle with care during tank maintenance
• Can be territorial toward other tangs, so tankmate selection matters
• Generally considered reef safe with corals, making it a common choice for reef aquariums
• Helps maintain a grazing routine, especially when offered algae sheets and seaweed regularly
• Settles best with slow acclimation and a calmer spot in the tank when first introduced

Specifications:

• Scientific name: Ctenochaetus striatus
• Category: Tangs & Surgeonfish
• Diet: Feed algae sheets and seaweed every day; also offer frozen and pellet foods
• Temperament: Can be territorial toward other tangs
• Compatibility note: Most are reef safe with corals
• Tank fit: Needs plenty of open swimming room