Two Spot Bristletooth Tang

Also known as the Two Spot Tang or Ctenochaetus binotatus.
The Two Spot Bristletooth Tang is a small to medium-sized, peaceful tang recognized for its subtle brown body, fine bristle-like teeth, and distinctive two dark spots near the tail. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this species is a gentle grazer that helps control algae growth in reef aquariums. Its calm temperament and unique appearance make it an excellent addition to community tanks, especially for aquarists seeking a hardy, algae-eating fish.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ctenochaetus binotatus
• Common Names: Two Spot Bristletooth Tang, Two Spot Tang
• Adult Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Peaceful; compatible with most community fish
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons (100+ recommended for best results)
• Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate 

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reefs and lagoons throughout the Indo-Pacific, including Hawaii, Fiji, and the Great Barrier Reef. They thrive in areas with moderate water movement and abundant algal growth.

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

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Protein skimmer
• Moderate circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs are primarily herbivorous and graze constantly on algae. Bristle-like teeth help them clean fine algae from rock surfaces.

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 to ensure balanced nutrition

Behavior & Compatibility

Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs are peaceful, slow-moving grazers that generally do not exhibit territorial behavior, making them compatible with most reef-safe fish.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful community fish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, anthias, and most reef-safe species
• Caution with: very aggressive tangs in confined spaces
• Avoid: overcrowding of surgeonfish

Color & Development
Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs have a subtle brown body with faint horizontal markings, bright yellow fins, and two distinct dark spots near the tail. Juveniles may appear slightly darker with more pronounced spots, which gradually fade into adult coloration.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 1–2 inches and grow steadily to 5–6 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 30–45 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:
Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs are hardy but can be prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) or HLLE if diet or water quality is poor.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

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

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended:
Quarantined Two Spot Bristletooth 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 Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs in captivity is extremely rare due to their specific grazing and spawning behaviors. Most breeding behavior is observed only in large, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Two Spot Bristletooth Tang?

Quarantined Two Spot Bristletooth Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt to aquarium life efficiently. Their health, coloration, and natural grazing behavior are ensured, providing hobbyists with a hardy and peaceful algae-eating tang.