Fish
intermediateKole tang (yellow-eyed)
Ctenochaetus strigosus
Quick reference
Min tank size
55 US gal
55 gal / 48 inches. Smallest tang that genuinely works in a 4-foot tank.
Min tank length
48 in
Length matters more than gallons for active swimmers.
Temperature
75–82 °F
Salinity
1.024–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Feeding
Detritus and film algae grazer. Will accept nori but most of diet is from the tank itself. Supplement with pellet.
Compatibility
Peaceful, even with other tang genera (Zebrasoma, Acanthurus) once established.
What kills it
Ich during quarantine. Aggression from established tang in a small tank.
Common mistakes
- •Confusing with Tomini tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis) — similar care, different look.
- •Underestimating algae demand — without film algae available, kole will pick at coral.
Equipment & food for this species
Mostly grazes film algae from rocks, but supplement with nori and pellets.
Nori sheets (Maruichi or Sushi-grade)
Herbivore staple. Daily for tangs.
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Selcon (American Marine)
HUFA + vitamin soak for frozen food. Critical for tang health.
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TDO Chroma Boost pellets
Best fish pellet for color enhancement. Multiple sizes.
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Related
Last reviewed