Chevron Tang Fish

The Chevron Tang, *Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis*, is a highly sought-after surgeonfish known for its striking juvenile coloration. Juveniles display a vibrant orange body with numerous fine, horizontal blue lines that create a chevron pattern, giving the fish its common name. As they mature, the orange fades to a deep brown or purplish-brown, and the blue lines become less prominent, often breaking into spots or disappearing entirely. The tail remains dark.

A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended for the Chevron Tang to provide ample swimming space and grazing opportunities. A well-established aquarium with live rock is essential, as this species is a detritivore, constantly sifting through the substrate and grazing on algae and detritus. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be territorial towards other tangs, especially those of similar shape or size. They are considered reef-safe, as their primary diet consists of algae and detritus, and they are not known to nip at corals or invertebrates.

The Chevron Tang's diet should consist primarily of marine algae, such as dried seaweed offered on a veggie clip. Supplement their diet with high-quality flake and pellet foods containing Spirulina and other vegetable matter. They will also benefit from occasional offerings of mysis shrimp or other meaty foods. In the wild, they reach a size of approximately 10 inches; however, in an aquarium, they typically grow to around 8 inches. There are no readily apparent visual differences between males and females.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 10"
• Recommended Tank Size: 180 gallons