The Yellow Eye Bristletooth Surgeonfish is an active, reef-safe tang with a bright yellow ring around each eye. It spends much of the day picking over rockwork, using its fine, brush-like teeth to graze on film algae and organic material. Its grazing habit adds movement to a reef display and can help keep film algae in check.
This surgeonfish suits an established saltwater aquarium with plenty of open swimming space and mature live rock. Leave open stretches between rock structures so it can move easily from one grazing spot to the next, and provide caves or crevices where it can retreat.
Quick care guide
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Care level: Intermediate
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Reef compatibility: Generally reef safe
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Temperament: Can be territorial towards other tangs, especially similarly shaped bristletooths
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Diet: Naturally grazes on film algae and biofilm. Supplement with marine seaweed, spirulina-based foods and quality marine pellets.
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Aquarium setup: A spacious, established marine aquarium with open swimming lanes, mature live rock and sheltered areas
Simply Fish recommendation
If you’re choosing a tang for a mature reef, the Yellow Eye Bristletooth is a great option for its day-to-day grazing behaviour. Offer marine nori on a feeding clip and rotate it with other algae-based foods. If you already keep a tang, check compatibility before adding another, particularly if your current fish is also a bristletooth.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Yellow Eye Bristletooth Surgeonfish reef safe?
Yes, it is generally considered reef safe and spends most of its grazing time picking at rockwork and other hard surfaces.
What type of algae does it eat?
It mainly grazes on soft film algae and biofilm. Its grazing can help keep these films in check, and it still needs regular supplemental feeding.
Can I keep it with other tangs?
It can work in a spacious aquarium with a carefully chosen mix. Similarly shaped tangs are more likely to compete for territory and grazing space.
Is it suitable for a newly cycled marine aquarium?
An established tank is a better fit. Mature rockwork gives it more natural surfaces to graze throughout the day.
