Whitetail Bristletooth

Whitetail Bristletooth Tang

The Whitetail Bristletooth Tang is a highly sought-after tang known for its striking contrast of dark body coloration and brilliant white tail. Combining attractive appearance, algae-grazing utility, and a generally peaceful temperament, this species makes an excellent addition to reef aquariums.

As a member of the Bristletooth Tang family, it spends much of its day grazing on rockwork and aquarium surfaces, helping to control algae while adding constant movement and activity to the display.

🟢 Quarantined (Minimum 2 Weeks) – Fully Conditioned & Eating

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
• Size: Up to approximately 6 inches

What Makes This Fish Special?

The Whitetail Bristletooth Tang stands out with its beautiful dark body and bright white tail, creating a striking appearance that contrasts beautifully against live rock and coral.

Unlike many tangs that primarily consume larger algae growth, Bristletooth Tangs utilize specialized comb-like teeth to graze film algae, diatoms, and detritus from rock surfaces throughout the aquarium.

Their manageable adult size, attractive coloration, and constant grazing behavior make them one of the most desirable tangs for reef aquariums.

Behavior & Husbandry

Whitetail Bristletooth Tangs are active swimmers that spend much of the day grazing rockwork and exploring the aquarium.

They are generally among the more peaceful tang species but may display territorial behavior toward other tangs, especially similarly shaped species.

Providing ample swimming room, stable water quality, and mature rockwork will help promote natural grazing behavior and long-term health.

Feeding & Diet

Primarily herbivorous but benefits from a varied diet.

What We Feed at Lush Corals:

• Nori and marine algae
• Herbivore pellets
• Frozen mysis shrimp
• Enriched frozen foods

In Your Aquarium:

• Nori
• Marine algae
• Herbivore pellets
• Frozen foods

Regular access to algae-based foods is important for maintaining health, coloration, and proper body weight.

Compatibility Notes

Compatible with:

• Clownfish
• Wrasses
• Gobies
• Blennies
• Angelfish
• Most reef-safe fish

Use caution when housing with:

• Other tangs
• Similar-shaped surgeonfish
• Highly aggressive tankmates

Best maintained in established aquariums with plenty of swimming space and grazing opportunities.

Lush Corals Quarantine Process

This fish has completed our quarantine process and is fully conditioned prior to sale.

Each fish is:

• Carefully inspected upon arrival
• Proactively treated and observed
• Monitored for health and behavior
• Conditioned to eat prepared foods
• Evaluated to ensure a strong feeding response

This helps ensure your fish arrives healthy, feeding, and well-adjusted, giving you a strong start in your aquarium.