Chevron tang

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Mainly distributed throughout the Hawaiian Islands and other parts of the Central Pacific. Inhabits surge zones of outer coral reefs.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the Acanthuridae family. Equipped with brush-like, flexible teeth suited for vacuuming microalgae off surfaces. Adult size reaches 28 cm (11 inches).

Social Behavior: Energetic and constantly grazing. Displays territorial aggression towards other bristletooth tangs, but is peaceful with other reef fish families.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Juveniles are neon orange with blue chevron-patterned markings. Adults turn dark olive-brown with hundreds of tiny blue-green lines. No sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum tank size of 350 liters (90 gallons). Provide massive live rock configurations to promote natural algae and detritus film growth.

Diet and Feeding: Detritivore and herbivore. Requires dried nori, spirulina pellets, and high-quality marine flakes. Excellent at controlling undesirable film algae.

Water Quality: Demands high oxygenation and strong water flow: temperature 24-27°C (75-81°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Safe for corals and invertebrates. Do not house with other Ctenochaetus species. Introduce as one of the last fish to the tank.

Aquarium Reproduction: Unrecorded in domestic systems. Broadcast spawners with pelagic larvae that drift in ocean currents.

Risks and Diseases: Prone to marine ich and HLLE. A varied, vitamin-enriched herbivorous diet and low-stress environment are essential for prevention.