Tomini Tang

The Tomini Tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis) is a compact, hardy bristletooth surgeonfish prized for its small adult size, constant grazing behavior, and peaceful temperament.** It’s one of the best tangs for mid‑sized reef tanks thanks to its film‑algae diet, manageable aggression, and attractive fin coloration. 🐠 Identity & Appearance Scientific name: Ctenochaetus tominiensis Common names: Tomini Tang, Flame Fin Tang, Bristletooth Tomini Tang, Orange Tip Bristletooth Adult size: 5–6 inches (≈15 cm) Coloration: Brown/tan body Bright blue tail and yellow/orange dorsal and anal fins Fine golden facial speckling; under actinic lighting the body can appear purple Distinguishing trait: Bristle‑like comb teeth for scraping film algae and detritus. 🌍 Distribution & Habitat Range: Indo‑Pacific and Western Pacific — Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Great Barrier Reef Habitat: Sheltered lagoons, shallow coral reefs, reef slopes with abundant rock surfaces for grazing Behavior in nature: Typically solitary or in small groups, constantly picking at microalgae and detritus. 🧠 Temperament & Behavior Temperament: Generally peaceful; may show territorial behavior toward other tangs or other Ctenochaetus species Activity level: Moderately active, spending most of the day grazing and darting through rockwork Reef safety: Fully reef‑safe; does not nip corals 🏡 Care Requirements Minimum tank size: 70 gallons recommended (55 gallons absolute minimum) A 4‑foot tank length strongly preferred for swimming and stress reduction Aquascape: Rockwork with long grazing lanes and caves Open sand and swimming space in front Mature tank with natural film algae production Water parameters: Temp: 75–80°F Salinity: 1.020–1.026 pH: 8.1–8.4 Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH (supports stable grazing environment) Nitrate: 5–15 ppm; phosphate 0.03–0.10 ppm for balanced algae growth Flow: Medium to strong; 20–40× turnover recommended for oxygenation and detritus suspension 🌿 Diet & Feeding Feeding style: Specialized film algae and detritus grazer using bristle teeth In captivity: Daily nori (2×2" sheet) Spirulina‑based pellets/flakes Frozen mysis or brine (supplemental) Herbivore pellets (≈1 mm) once daily Feeding frequency: 2–3 small feedings per day; clip nori in multiple locations to reduce guarding behavior Vitamin supplementation: Twice weekly to prevent HLLE and support immune health. ⚠️ Health & Sensitivities Disease risks: Ich and velvet — tangs are highly susceptible under stress Quarantine: 30‑day quarantine strongly recommended for new arrivals Common issues: Pinched belly → underfeeding or competition Pale coloration → stress or low oxygen HLLE → poor nutrition or unstable water quality 🧩 Compatibility Good tankmates: Peaceful reef fish — wrasses, anthias, clownfish, small angels, dissimilar tangs. Avoid: Other Ctenochaetus tangs in tanks under 125 gallons Similar‑sized tangs in 4‑foot tanks unless introduced together. Introduction tips: Add after timid fish in smaller tanks; use acclimation box for 3–5 days if mixing tangs 📌 Quick Snapshot Tomini Tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis)** Size: 5–6" Temperament: Peaceful, mildly territorial Diet: Film algae & detritus grazer Reef Safe: Yes Tank Size: 70+ gallons Notes: Excellent utility fish for mid‑sized reefs; thrives in mature rock‑rich systems with stable nutrients.