White Tail Kole Tang

The White Tail Kole Tang, *Ctenochaetus strigosus*, is a popular and attractive surgeonfish known for its vibrant coloration and active nature. Its body is typically a rich brown to reddish-brown, adorned with numerous fine, horizontal blue lines that cover the head and body. A distinctive feature is its bright white tail, which provides a striking contrast to its darker body. The eyes are often ringed with yellow.

A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for the White Tail Kole Tang to provide ample swimming space and grazing opportunities. They are considered an intermediate-level fish, requiring a mature aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing on algae. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be territorial with other tangs, especially those of similar shape or size. Introducing them as one of the last fish in the tank can help minimize aggression.

In the aquarium, the White Tail Kole Tang is an excellent algae grazer and will spend much of its time picking at the rockwork. Their diet should be supplemented with a variety of marine-based foods, including high-quality marine flake and pellet foods, dried seaweed (nori) offered on a veggie clip, and frozen mysis shrimp or brine shrimp. A varied diet is crucial for their health and to prevent nutritional deficiencies. They typically reach a maximum size of around 7 inches in captivity. Like other tangs, they are susceptible to marine ich, so maintaining excellent water quality is essential.