The Bristletooth Tomini Tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis), also known as the Tomini bristletooth or flamefin tang, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It is found in the Western Pacific Ocean and is popular in the marine aquarium trade.

Physical Description

The Bristletooth Tomini Tang has an oval-shaped, laterally compressed body. The overall coloration is brownish-olive with a distinctive yellow, orange, and white caudal fin. The dorsal fin has 8 spines and 25-27 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 22-24 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum total length of 15 cm (5.9 in).

Distribution and Habitat

The Bristletooth Tomini Tang is found in the Western Pacific from Indonesia and the Philippines to northern Australia and Fiji. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and lagoons at depths between 2 and 30 meters.

Diet and Feeding

The Bristletooth Tomini 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 Bristletooth Tomini 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.