Common Names: Tomini Tang, Orangetip Bristletooth, Bristletooth Tomini Tang, Tomini Surgeonfish, Flame Fin Tang
Scientific Name:Ctenochaetus tominiensis
The Tomini Tang, also known as the Flame Fin Tang, is a compact and highly valued Bristletooth Tang ideal for medium-sized reef aquariums. Adults display a tan-to-chocolate body accented with blue tail coloration, golden-yellow dorsal and anal fins, and bright gold flecking around the eyes. A subtle golden arc below the eye completes its iconic, flame-fin appearance.
Small in size but big in personality, the Tomini Tang is an excellent film algae grazer, using fine bristle-like teeth to constantly forage across rocks and glass. It remains one of the most practical and attractive algae-eating tangs available in the hobby.
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially toward other tangs)
Reef Safe: Yes
Adult Size: ~6 inches (18 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 55–70 gallons (larger preferred)
Lifespan: 5+ years with proper care
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.022–1.026
Origin / Habitat: Indo-Pacific, Western Central Pacific, Northern Great Barrier Reef
Tomini Tangs are generally peaceful in community setups but can be aggressive toward new arrivals or other tangs, especially those of similar shape. They are best kept as a single tang unless housed in tanks 120 gallons or larger.
✔ Reef-safe with corals
✔ Compatible with most peaceful fish
✔ Avoid pairing with other Bristletooth or similar tangs in small tanks
Herbivore – High Demand for Marine Algae
Nori/seaweed sheets (3× weekly)
Spirulina pellets
Algae-based flakes
Occasional mysis, brine, or meaty foods
A green-rich diet improves:
Immunity
Color vibrancy
Overall health
Reduces aggression
Provide seaweed on a clip or tied to a rock for natural grazing behavior.
Medium to large reef tanks
Hobbyists needing a reliable algae grazer
Tanks requiring a hardy, eye-catching centerpiece fish
Community reef aquariums
Common Names: Tomini Tang, Orangetip Bristletooth, Bristletooth Tomini Tang, Tomini Surgeonfish, Flame Fin Tang
Scientific Name:Ctenochaetus tominiensis
The Tomini Tang, also known as the Flame Fin Tang, is a compact and highly valued Bristletooth Tang ideal for medium-sized reef aquariums. Adults display a tan-to-chocolate body accented with blue tail coloration, golden-yellow dorsal and anal fins, and bright gold flecking around the eyes. A subtle golden arc below the eye completes its iconic, flame-fin appearance.
Small in size but big in personality, the Tomini Tang is an excellent film algae grazer, using fine bristle-like teeth to constantly forage across rocks and glass. It remains one of the most practical and attractive algae-eating tangs available in the hobby.
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially toward other tangs)
Reef Safe: Yes
Adult Size: ~6 inches (18 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 55–70 gallons (larger preferred)
Lifespan: 5+ years with proper care
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.022–1.026
Origin / Habitat: Indo-Pacific, Western Central Pacific, Northern Great Barrier Reef
Tomini Tangs are generally peaceful in community setups but can be aggressive toward new arrivals or other tangs, especially those of similar shape. They are best kept as a single tang unless housed in tanks 120 gallons or larger.
✔ Reef-safe with corals
✔ Compatible with most peaceful fish
✔ Avoid pairing with other Bristletooth or similar tangs in small tanks
Herbivore – High Demand for Marine Algae
Nori/seaweed sheets (3× weekly)
Spirulina pellets
Algae-based flakes
Occasional mysis, brine, or meaty foods
A green-rich diet improves:
Immunity
Color vibrancy
Overall health
Reduces aggression
Provide seaweed on a clip or tied to a rock for natural grazing behavior.
Medium to large reef tanks
Hobbyists needing a reliable algae grazer
Tanks requiring a hardy, eye-catching centerpiece fish
Community reef aquariums
