Description
White Tail Kole Tang – Ctenochaetus flavicauda
Overview:
The White Tail Kole Tang is a striking bristletooth surgeonfish, easily recognized by its deep brown to reddish body covered in fine spots and stripes, contrasted with a crisp white tail. Compact, hardy, and excellent at controlling nuisance algae, it’s a favorite among reef aquarists.
Origin:
Native to the Pacific Ocean, most commonly collected from regions around the Marshall Islands and Micronesia.
Feeding:
Primarily herbivorous, grazing on film algae and detritus. Offer a diet of nori, spirulina, algae-based flakes or pellets, with occasional mysis or enriched brine shrimp for variety.
Tank Mates:
Peaceful and well-suited for community and reef tanks. Avoid housing with other tangs or similar-shaped fish in small aquariums to prevent territorial disputes.
Aggression:
Generally peaceful, though may display mild territorial behavior toward other tangs. One of the more docile surgeonfish species.
Experience Level:
Beginner to intermediate aquarists – hardy and smaller than many tangs, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an effective algae grazer in a manageable size.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.020–1.025
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Minimum Tank Size: 70+ gallons
The White Tail Kole Tang is a hardy, reef-safe algae grazer that brings both function and subtle beauty to medium-sized marine aquariums.
