Orange-tip Bristletooth
NameOrange-tip Bristletooth
Scientific NameCtenochaetus truncatus
Common NamesOrange-tip Bristletooth, Squaretail Bristletooth Tang, Truncate Bristletooth Tang, Indian Ocean Bristletooth Tang
FamilyAcanthuridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Indian Ocean, Red Sea, East Africa
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietherbivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)70
Max Size (Inches)7
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesClownfish, Damselfish, Angelfish (non-tangs), Gobies, Blennies, Wrasses, Hawkfish
Description
The Orange-tip Bristletooth is a detritivorous tang characterized by its brown body and striking yellow dorsal and anal fins, complemented by a pale caudal fin. It utilizes specialized bristle-like teeth to graze on diatoms and microalgae, making it an excellent natural cleaner for a marine aquarium. This species thrives in a mature tank with ample live rock for continuous grazing.
