Description

The Chevron Tang Fish, also known as the Hawaiian Bristletooth, Hawaiian Surgeonfish, or Black Surgeonfish, has an oval body shape with radiating, bold markings that change with maturity. Chevron Tang Fish grow to a maximum length of around 6.3 inches. As juveniles, these fish are dark orange in color, with blue chevron marks on their sides. These marks are where this fish receives its name. As the fish ages, it turns black in color with blue horizontal stripes. The mouth on this fish is typically puckered, and they have a row of 30 teeth.

Like all Surgeonfish, Hawaiian Bristletooth Fish have a sharp spines on each side of their caudal peduncle that they use for defense. The spines are relatively small when compared to other Surgeonfish.

Chevron Tang Fish are found throughout parts of the Central Pacific Ocean, namely the Hawaiian Islands. They have been seen as far west as Micronesia, and are found solitary in areas dense with coral, typically 60–100 feet below the waters surface. Adults can be found closer to the surface in surging water, which is typically highly oxygenated as a result of increased surface tension. As adults, they are known to be found in non-reef environments.

Although Chevron Tang Fish will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health.