Yellow Eye Bristletooth Tang

Common Names: Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tang, Striped Bristletooth • Natural Habitat: Found in the coral reefs and rocky areas of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around Fiji, the Marshall Islands, and the Solomon Islands. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Characterized by its oval-shaped body covered in tiny bristles, the fish features vibrant orange stripes running from head to tail. The coloration can range from blue-gray to brownish hues, with the bristles providing a unique texture. • Size: Typically grows up to 7 inches (18 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Can live up to 5-10 years in a well-maintained aquarium with proper care. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Requires a minimum tank size of 75 gallons to accommodate its active swimming habits and territorial nature. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C). o pH: Thrives in a pH range of 8.1 to 8.4. • Aquascaping: Needs ample hiding spots created by live rock and caves, along with open swimming areas to mimic its natural environment. Diet: • Primary Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and detritus in the wild. • Supplemental Feeding: In captivity, should be provided with high-quality algae sheets, spirulina-based flakes, and herbivore pellets to ensure a balanced diet. • Feeding Frequency: Feed multiple times a day in small portions to promote healthy growth and avoid overfeeding. Compatibility: • Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial towards similar species, especially in smaller tanks. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful fish, particularly those that are larger and not tangs. • Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with aggressive fish or those that may nip at its fins. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water conditions, a varied diet, and adequate space for optimal health. • Health Monitoring: Regular checks for common diseases, such as ich or marine velvet, are essential, along with maintaining good water quality. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Rarely bred in home aquariums; most specimens available in the trade are wild-caught. • Spawning: In natural settings, they are known to spawn in groups, releasing eggs into the water column. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: Increasingly popular among aquarium enthusiasts for its unique appearance and algae-eating habits. • Wholesale Pricing: Typically moderate in price, reflecting their popularity and care needs. • Retail Pricing: Retail prices vary based on size and availability, generally falling within a moderate range. Sustainability and Conservation: • Wild Population: Generally stable, although habitat destruction and overfishing are concerns in some areas. • Aquaculture Efforts: Limited success in breeding in captivity; most fish in the market are sourced from the wild. Conclusion: The Orange Stripe Bristletooth Tang is a vibrant and active addition to reef aquariums, valued for its algae-eating capabilities and distinctive coloration. With the right environment and care, this species can thrive in captivity, enhancing the beauty of marine setups while providing valuable cleaning services.