Ctenochaetus tominiensis (Tomini Tang)

Description:
The Ctenochaetus tominiensis, commonly known as the Tomini Tang, Gold Rim Tang, or Tomini Surgeonfish, is a vibrant, medium-sized tang species native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly found around the coastal reefs of Indonesia, the Philippines, and parts of the Pacific Ocean.
This tang is a relatively peaceful and hardy species, known for its distinctive coloration and relatively manageable size compared to other tangs. The body of the Tomini Tang is yellow-gold with a characteristic dark edge around the tail, giving it the "gold rim" name. The fish also has a more subdued pattern of dark lines running along its body, adding to its overall beauty. As adults, they can reach 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length, making them a great option for medium-sized aquariums.
Like other tang species, it has a sharp, spiny tail (a characteristic feature of surgeonfish), which it uses for defense against predators and other fish.
Care:
Tank Size: The Tomini Tang requires a minimum of 75 gallons for a single fish, with 100 gallons or more being ideal for a more comfortable environment. Despite being smaller than some other tang species, it still requires ample swimming space. In a larger tank, the Tomini Tang will be less territorial and more likely to thrive.
Water Conditions: Ctenochaetus tominiensis is relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions. However, for optimal health, the following water parameters should be maintained:
Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Less than 10 ppm
Stable water conditions are essential, and regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks) are recommended to maintain optimal water quality.
Diet: As an herbivore, the Tomini Tang primarily feeds on algae. In the wild, they graze on algae found in their reef habitat. In captivity, it is important to replicate this diet, which should include:
Algae sheets (nori, spirulina)
Marine algae (like chaetomorpha or gracilaria)
Vegetable-based pellets or flakes
Fresh vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or broccoli
They also benefit from a mix of frozen foods such as mysis shrimp or brine shrimp for protein supplementation. To maintain their health, it is important to provide a variety of foods, with algae being a core part of their diet.
Tank Setup: Tomini Tangs prefer a reef-like environment with live rock to graze on, hide in, and establish territories. They also appreciate a sandy substrate, which mimics their natural environment and provides hiding spots. Tomini Tangs are active swimmers, so the tank should have plenty of open swimming space.
It is also beneficial to allow for some natural algae growth on rocks or a well-maintained algae section within the tank, as the Tomini Tang will graze on it. Providing moderate water flow will also help replicate the current conditions found in their natural habitat.
Social Behavior: The Tomini Tang is generally peaceful and tends to get along well with most other fish. However, they can be territorial and should be housed in a tank large enough to allow them to establish their own space. They are usually not aggressive but may occasionally show territorial behavior, especially toward other tangs or surgeonfish species.
It is recommended to keep them with peaceful species, such as:
Clownfish
Wrasses
Gobies
Blennies
Other non-aggressive reef species
While they can be kept with other tangs, it’s advisable to avoid keeping multiple tangs of similar size in smaller tanks, as this can lead to aggression.
Companions: Tomini Tangs are compatible with a variety of peaceful tankmates, including:
Clownfish
Wrasses
Gobies
Anthias
Blennies
Other peaceful reef fish
However, it’s important to avoid keeping them with overly aggressive fish or other tangs unless the tank is large enough to reduce territorial disputes.
Maintenance: As with all tangs, the Tomini Tang requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy. This includes:
Regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks)
A protein skimmer to remove excess organic matter
Efficient filtration to keep nitrate levels low and maintain water clarity
Additionally, providing algae control through regular tank maintenance and ensuring that their diet is properly supplemented with high-quality algae sheets and other vegetable matter is crucial to their health.
Additional Considerations:
Health Concerns: Like other tang species, Tomini Tangs can be prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon irritans) and other parasitic diseases, especially if water conditions are poor or they are stressed. Quarantining new fish before adding them to the tank can help prevent the introduction of pathogens. Maintaining excellent water quality and minimizing stress are key to keeping them healthy.
Size and Space: Although they are smaller than some tang species, Tomini Tangs are still active swimmers that require enough space to roam and graze. Overcrowding or a tank that is too small can lead to stress, aggression, and health problems.
Temperament: Tomini Tangs are relatively shy and may hide initially, particularly in new environments. They tend to become more confident as they acclimate to the tank. Providing plenty of hiding spots and territories will help them feel secure and reduce stress.