Tomini Tang

Also known as the Tomini Surgeonfish or Tomini Bristletooth Tang.

The Tomini Tang is a beautifully patterned tang featuring subtle gradients of blue, gray, and yellow, making it a peaceful yet visually appealing addition to medium to large aquariums. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is active, hardy when properly cared for, and grazes constantly on algae, helping maintain a healthy reef environment. Its calm temperament and moderate size make it suitable for community tanks with other peaceful fish.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ctenochaetus tominiensis
• Common Names: Tomini Tang, Tomini Surgeonfish
• Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; may establish territory with other tangs
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe 
• Minimum Tank Size: 70
• Experience Level: Intermediate 

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reefs and lagoon areas of the Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern Australia. They thrive in moderate currents with abundant algae for grazing.

Tank Environment:
Moderate water flow with open swimming areas
Plenty of live rock for grazing and shelter
Stable water parameters with high oxygen levels
UV sterilizer recommended to reduce parasite exposure

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Oversized protein skimmer
• Moderate circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (15–20% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Tomini Tangs are primarily herbivorous, grazing constantly on algae. A varied diet ensures proper coloration, growth, and health.

Recommended Foods:

• Nori sheets (green, red, brown)
• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety
• Vitamin-enriched foods for immune support

Feeding Schedule:
Feed 2–3 times daily
Provide continuous access to algae or nori
Rotate food types for balanced nutrition

Behavior & Compatibility

Tomini Tangs are active but generally peaceful, establishing minimal territory in a suitably sized tank. They integrate well into community reef setups once acclimated.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful community fish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, anthias, and most reef-safe species
• Caution with: other tangs in small tanks, semi-aggressive tangs
• Avoid: aggressive triggers or overcrowding of surgeonfish

Color & Development
Tomini Tangs display a gentle gradient of blue, gray, and yellow with subtle fin highlights. Juveniles may have more contrasting patterns, which smooth out as they mature. Proper diet and water quality maintain their elegant coloration.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 2–3 inches and grow steadily to 8–10 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 45–60 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide immediate access to algae and hiding areas
• Avoid adding to new or unstable tanks

Health Considerations:
Tomini Tangs are susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) and HLLE if diet or water quality is poor.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Active grazing and swimming
• Clear eyes and smooth fins
• Strong appetite and vibrant coloration
• No flashing or labored breathing

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended:
Quarantined Tomini Tangs have higher survival rates, are conditioned to prepared foods, and are free from parasites. Dr Reef’s quarantine protocol ensures each fish is:

• Observed and treated preventatively
• Conditioned to aquarium diet
• Stabilized before shipment

Breeding Potential

Breeding Tomini Tangs in captivity is extremely rare due to their schooling and grazing behaviors. Spawning has mostly been observed in large, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Tomini Tang?

Quarantined Tomini Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt to aquarium life more efficiently. Their health, coloration, and natural behavior are ensured, providing hobbyists a beautiful, low-stress tang for medium to large reef tanks.