Description

The Lined Bristletooth Tang is a hardy and highly useful reef fish, well known for its algae-eating ability and relatively peaceful temperament compared to other tang species. With its fine horizontal striping and bristle-like teeth adapted for grazing, this fish is both functional and attractive in larger reef systems.

Also commonly referred to as a Kole Tang type in the hobby, the Lined Bristletooth Tang is an excellent choice for established aquariums needing reliable algae control without excessive aggression.

Scientific Name

Ctenochaetus striatus

Common Names

• Lined Bristletooth Tang
• Striped Bristletooth Tang
• Kole-type Tang (trade name grouping)

Care Level

Easy to Moderate

Temperament

Semi-aggressive (generally peaceful for a tang)

Reef Safe

Yes — completely reef safe

Minimum Tank Size

300L+

Maximum Size

Around 18–22cm

Lifespan

10–15+ years with proper care

Natural Habitat

Lined Bristletooth Tangs are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly on outer reef slopes and lagoon systems. They spend most of their time grazing on detritus, microalgae, and organic film covering rock surfaces and sand zones.

Their specialised “bristle teeth” allow them to efficiently scrape food from hard surfaces.

Diet & Feeding

This species is primarily a detritivore and microalgae grazer, making it extremely valuable in reef aquariums.

Recommended Foods

• Marine algae sheets (nori)
• Spirulina flakes and pellets
• Herbivore pellets
• Frozen mysis (occasional)
• Marine herbivore blends
• Natural tank algae growth

Feed 1–3 times daily depending on tank maturity and algae availability.

Water Parameters

Recommended Parameters

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026
• Temperature: 24–26°C
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia: 0ppm
• Nitrite: 0ppm
• Nitrate: <15ppm

Stable, oxygen-rich reef conditions are ideal.

Tank Setup

Lined Bristletooth Tangs thrive in mature reef aquariums with strong rockwork and natural grazing surfaces.

Ideal Setup Includes

• Established live rock with algae growth
• Open swimming areas
• Moderate to strong water flow
• High oxygenation
• Secure lid (active swimmer)

They are highly active and benefit from large, stable systems.

Compatibility

Lined Bristletooth Tangs are generally one of the more peaceful tang species, especially compared to Acanthurus tangs.

Common Compatible Tank Mates

• Clownfish
• Wrasses
• Foxface
• Blennies
• Gobies
• Dwarf angelfish
• Other tangs (with proper introduction in larger tanks)

Use Caution With

• Highly aggressive tang species in confined systems
• Small timid fish if under stress in overcrowded tanks
• Competing herbivores in undersized aquariums

Best results are achieved in established, well-structured reef systems.

Common Mistakes

Insufficient Tank Size

Although more peaceful than many tangs, they are still highly active swimmers and need space.

Poor Grazing Opportunities

They rely heavily on natural film algae and detritus. Sterile tanks can lead to weight loss if not supplemented.

Adding Without Quarantine or Observation

Like all tangs, they are prone to ich (marine whitespot) under stress.

Overstocking Multiple Tangs Too Quickly

While more tolerant than others, introduction order still matters in mixed tang systems.

Fun Facts

• Their “bristle teeth” are designed specifically for scraping microalgae and detritus.
• They are one of the best algae control fish for established reef aquariums.
• They constantly “peck” at rock surfaces throughout the day.
• Unlike many tangs, they are less prone to aggression in community systems.

Why Buy Lined Bristletooth Tangs From Aquamarine Aquaristic?

At Aquamarine Aquaristic, our tangs are carefully selected for strong feeding response and health before sale. We focus on hardy, established specimens that adapt well to reef aquariums and contribute to natural algae balance.