The White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda), also known as the whitetail bristletooth or yelloweye tang, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It is found in the Western Atlantic Ocean and is popular in the marine aquarium trade.

Physical Description

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang has an oval-shaped, laterally compressed body. The overall coloration is dark brown to reddish-brown with a distinctive white caudal fin. The dorsal fin has 8 spines and 25-28 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 22-25 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum total length of 16 cm (6.3 in).

Distribution and Habitat

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is found in the Western Atlantic from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and rocky areas at depths between 2 and 30 meters.

Diet and Feeding

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is herbivorous, using its comb-like teeth to graze on detritus and fine filamentous algae. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, spirulina, and high-quality vegetable-based preparations.

Aquarium Care

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang requires a well-established aquarium of at least 70 gallons with abundant live rock for grazing. It is generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. Generally considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.