Lavender Bristletooth Tang

The Lavender Bristletooth Tang (Acanthurus nigrofuscus), also known as the Spot-Cheeked Tang or Brown Tang, is a captivating marine fish appreciated for its unique coloration and active demeanor. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like the Red Sea and Australia, this species thrives in coral reefs and rocky habitats. Its distinctive appearance and algae-grazing habits make it a beneficial and attractive addition to well-maintained marine aquariums.

(REEF SAFE / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Lavender Bristletooth Tang, Spot-Cheeked Tang, Brown Tang
• Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigrofuscus
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and Australian waters; typically inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas up to depths of 20 meters.
  
  
• Maximum Size: Reaches up to 8 inches (21 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: Can live 7 years or longer in captivity with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for aquarists with some experience due to specific care requirements.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Exhibits a bluish-brown or lavender body with tan accents. Notable features include multiple orange spots on the face and small black spots covering the rest of the body. The tail is forked, adding to its distinctive look.
• Body Shape & Structure: Oval-shaped and laterally compressed body, equipped with sharp spines near the tail base, characteristic of surgeonfish.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (475-liter) aquarium is recommended to provide ample swimming space and to accommodate its active nature.
  
  
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.0 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.022 to 1.026.
• Aquascape: Provide a well-structured environment with ample live rock formations to encourage natural grazing behavior and offer hiding spots.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Herbivorous
• Preferred Foods: Primarily feeds on algae; a diet rich in marine-based seaweed and algae is essential. Supplement with high-quality herbivore pellets and occasional vegetable matter.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer food 2 to 3 times daily to support metabolic needs and reduce aggressive tendencies.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior towards conspecifics or similar species, especially in smaller tanks.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium; can coexist with other non-aggressive species.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of peaceful marine fish; avoid housing with aggressive or highly territorial species.
• Activity Level: Active swimmer, spending significant time grazing on algae-covered surfaces.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Requires regular monitoring of water quality and a stable environment to thrive.
• Special Requirements: A diet rich in algae is crucial to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Regular water changes and maintenance of water parameters are essential.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
• Additional Notes: Introducing the Lavender Bristletooth Tang as the last fish in a community tank can help minimize territorial disputes.