More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 400 litres / 105.67 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 16cm / 6.30inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Short-tail bristle-tooth, scientifically known as Ctenochaetus cyanocheilus, belongs to the Acanthuridae family, specifically the genus Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus). These fish are characterized by their specialized teeth that allow them to scrape algae and organic matter from rocks and stones. Short-tail bristle-tooth fish are generally peaceful and less active compared to other Surgeonfish species, making them suitable for smaller aquariums. They may not exhibit vibrant colors, especially as they reach around 3 inches (7-8 cm) in size.
Aquarium Suitability
The Short-tail bristle-tooth is suitable for aquariums with care. They are peaceful for the most part but can exhibit aggression towards similar species. Proper tank size, ample hiding spots, and a well-established environment with algae-covered rocks are essential for their well-being. Keeping them well-fed with algae-based foods is crucial for their immune system health.
Care and Hardiness
These fish have average hardiness levels and require a tank of at least 400 liters. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of algae for grazing and hiding spots among live rocks. Short-tail bristle-tooth fish enjoy swimming and need space to move around freely in the tank.
Reef Suitability
Short-tail bristle-tooth fish are always reef-safe, as they rarely bother corals or invertebrates. However, larger Palettes/Blue tangs may pose an exception in some cases.
Aquarium Setup
Setting up an aquarium for Short-tail bristle-tooth fish involves providing ample space for swimming, good hiding places among live rocks, and a well-maintained environment with abundant algae growth on rocks. Ensuring a balanced diet with macroalgae like seaweed or nori and microalgae such as spirulina is crucial for their health.
Behaviour
These fish have a mostly peaceful temperament but may exhibit aggression towards similar species, especially when housed in close proximity. When adding multiple Surgeonfish species to the same tank, establishing hierarchy dynamics is common.
Feeding and Diet
Short-tail bristle-tooth fish primarily feed on detritus and small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. Their diet should include algae-based foods like plant-based flakes, nori seaweed, and similar options. Ensuring they have sufficient algae to graze on is vital for their dietary needs.
Habitat and Distribution
These fish are native to the Western Pacific region, ranging from the Ogasawara Islands in the north to Samoa in the south. They are found in areas extending from the Philippines and Indonesia to the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. Short-tail bristle-tooth fish inhabit reef environments with ample rocks and algae for grazing.