Flame Fin (Tomini) Tang - Ctenochaetus tominiensis

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis: Compact Grazer with Bold Fin Highlights

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis delivers constant grazing activity, compact movement, and vibrant fin accents within Tangs systems. Its smaller size and active behavior make it a strong addition to reef aquariums with limited space.  

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis Color and Texture Profile

This species combines earthy body tones with bright accent colors that stand out under reef lighting. Consequently, it creates contrast without overwhelming the visual balance of the tank.

• Brown to orange body with subtle shading across the midsection
• Bright yellow to orange fin edges that highlight movement
• Fine spotting across the head and upper body
• Distinct yellow ring surrounding the eye

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis Tank Setup and Space Needs

This species adapts well to smaller reef systems compared to larger tangs. Therefore, proper layout still plays a key role in long-term success.

• Minimum tank size of 70 gallons for stable conditions
• Rock structures designed to maximize grazing surfaces
• Open swimming lanes maintained for steady movement
• Moderate water flow to support natural behavior

Furthermore, stable parameters help reduce stress and support consistent grazing activity.

Water Conditions for Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis

• Temperature: 72–78°F
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• dKH: 8–12
• Flow: Moderate circulation

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis Feeding and Grazing Behavior

This species focuses heavily on surface grazing, making it a practical addition for algae management. Therefore, consistent feeding supports both health and coloration.

• Dried nori or seaweed offered several times per week
• Spirulina-based pellets or flakes for daily feeding
• Occasional frozen foods for added nutrition
• Frequent feeding schedule to match natural grazing habits

In addition, access to algae helps maintain stable behavior and reduces competition within the tank.

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis Compatibility and Behavior

This species shows moderate territorial tendencies, especially toward other tangs in confined spaces. However, proper stocking order improves compatibility.

• Best kept as a single tang in most systems
• Avoid pairing with similar-shaped species in smaller tanks
• Compatible with reef-safe fish that tolerate active movement

Because of its manageable size, it integrates well into a wider range of reef systems compared to larger tang species.

Flame Fin Tomini Tang Ctenochaetus tominiensis Key Specifications

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Color Form: Brown, orange, yellow accents
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions: 72–78°F, 1.020–1.025 SG, pH 8.1–8.4, dKH 8–12
• Max Size: 6.5 inches
• General Sizing: Tiny: 0.5"–1", Small: 1"–2", Small/Medium: 2"–3", Medium: 3"–4.5", Medium/Large: 4.5"–5.5", Large: 5.5"–6.5", Extra Large: 6.5"–7"+
• Origin: Indo-Pacific Ocean
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Minimum Tank Size Requirements: 70 gallons

Tangs

This group includes active reef fish known for algae grazing, steady movement, and maintaining cleaner aquarium surfaces over time.