Chevron Tang

The Chevron Tang is a highly prized member of the bristletooth genus Ctenochaetus, famous for its extraordinary juvenile coloration. Young Chevron Tangs display one of the most visually stunning patterns of any marine fish: a deep red-orange body covered in intricate, electric-blue chevron markings that create a mesmerizing geometric pattern. This spectacular juvenile coloration is what drives the species' popularity in the aquarium trade, as juveniles are among the most eye-catching fish available. However, as the fish matures, the vivid colors gradually fade to a more subdued dark olive-brown to nearly black adult coloration.

In the wild, Chevron Tangs are found primarily around the Hawaiian Islands and scattered locations across the Central Pacific, inhabiting coral-rich reef slopes and surge zones at moderate depths. Like other Ctenochaetus species, they possess specialized flexible, comb-like teeth designed for scraping detritus, microalgae, and organic film from rock surfaces rather than cropping larger algae strands. This makes them exceptional members of a reef aquarium's cleanup crew, methodically working over every surface of live rock.

The Chevron Tang requires a minimum tank size of 125 gallons due to its potential adult size of 11 inches and its active swimming habits. It is moderately hardy and adapts well to captive conditions when provided with excellent water quality and a varied herbivorous diet. While semi-aggressive toward other tangs, it is generally peaceful toward dissimilar species and completely reef-safe. Aquarists should be aware that the stunning juvenile coloration is temporary and should appreciate the more subtle beauty of the adult form.