Orange Stripe Bristletooth Cf. (Ctenochaetus cf. striatus)

The Orange Stripe Bristletooth is a vibrant and functional member of the bristletooth tang family, celebrated for its distinctive orange stripes that run along its predominantly dark body. This species is highly valued for its efficient algae grazing, which helps maintain a clean tank environment, and its peaceful temperament makes it a great addition to reef and fish-only aquariums. Its specialized grazing behavior, using bristle-like teeth to scrape algae from surfaces, makes it both an aesthetic and functional component in a well-established marine setup.

Care Information
Maximum Size: Up to 7 inches.
Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum; requires a spacious tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and open swimming areas to support its active foraging behavior.
Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on marine algae and biofilm. In captivity, it thrives on a diet of high-quality herbivore pellets, seaweed sheets (nori), and spirulina. Supplemental feedings with algae wafers may also be provided to mimic its natural grazing habits.
Water Temp: 72-78°F.
Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
Aggression: Peaceful; generally non-aggressive and compatible with other reef-safe tankmates.
Skill Level: Intermediate; requires stable water quality and consistent feeding to maintain proper health and coloration.
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an excellent addition to mature reef setups.

Special Features – Distinctive Coloration and Algae Grazing
The Orange Stripe Bristletooth is noted for its bright orange stripes set against a darker body, creating a striking visual contrast. Its specialized grazing behavior helps control algae growth, contributing to a cleaner, more balanced aquarium ecosystem.

Compatibility
This species thrives in community tanks with other peaceful fish. Ensure ample live rock and open swimming space to prevent territorial disputes and support its natural foraging behavior.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Orange Stripe Bristletooth typically displays a dark body with vivid orange stripes along its flanks, offering a bold and distinctive appearance that stands out under proper lighting.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to Indo-Pacific coral reefs, this tang is commonly found in areas with sandy and rocky substrates where it grazes on algae and biofilm.
• Tank Setup: Mimic its natural environment with plenty of live rock for grazing and a spacious, well-oxygenated water column for active swimming.