White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus Flavicauda)

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is a rare and highly desirable species in the marine aquarium hobby, known for its rich brown body and distinctive white tail. Like other bristletooth tangs, this species is a voracious algae grazer, making it an excellent addition to reef tanks for natural algae control. Its smaller size, peaceful demeanor, and unique coloration make it an attractive and functional fish for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 6 inches.
• Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum; a tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and open swimming areas is ideal.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and detritus. It should be provided with a diet rich in marine-based seaweed, algae sheets (such as nori), and high-quality herbivore pellets. Supplementing with fresh greens helps maintain its health and vibrant coloration.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; peaceful overall, but like many tangs, it may become territorial towards other tangs or fish with similar body shapes, particularly in smaller tanks. Keeping it in a larger tank with plenty of space helps minimize territorial behavior.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; hardy and easy to care for with a well-established tank and proper diet.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an ideal choice for reef tanks. Its constant grazing behavior helps keep algae growth under control.

Special Feature - Algae Grazing
The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is highly effective at grazing on algae, especially film algae and detritus, helping to maintain a clean and balanced aquarium environment. Its specialized bristle-like teeth allow it to scrape algae off rocks and tank surfaces, making it an essential member of the tank’s natural cleanup crew.

Compatibility
This species is peaceful and does well with a variety of tankmates, though it may become territorial toward other tangs or similar species if space is limited. Providing ample live rock for grazing and hiding will reduce the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

Coloration

• Pacific Region (Tahiti): The White Tail Bristletooth Tang has a dark brown to gray body with a strikingly white tail, which sets it apart from other bristletooth tangs. Its unique coloration and smaller size make it a visually stunning and functional addition to reef and marine tanks​.

Geographical Distribution
This species is primarily found around the waters of Tahiti and other parts of the Central Pacific, making it a rare find in the aquarium trade. The White Tail Bristletooth Tang's limited distribution adds to its desirability, making it a prized addition to any collection.