Ctenochaetus tominiensis 4-6 cm

Ctenochaetus tominiensis: the Tomini Surgeonfish, Compact, Useful, and Ornamental

The Ctenochaetus tominiensis, often referred to as the Tomini Surgeonfish or Yellowfin Surgeonfish, is a compact, active marine fish that is highly appreciated for medium-sized reef aquariums. Its adult size is approximately 15 cm, making it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a useful fish for a reasonably sized tank.

This surgeonfish features a dark gray to brownish body, contrasted by vivid orange-edged dorsal and anal fins, as well as a pearly white caudal fin. This combination of colors, both understated and bright, makes the Tomini Surgeonfish a pleasant fish to watch, constantly moving over rocks and substrate.

Calm Behavior and Moderate Sociability

The Ctenochaetus tominiensis is a rather peaceful fish, capable of cohabiting with other marine fish, including different species of acanthurids. However, it can become territorial with its own kind in a confined space. Therefore, intraspecific cohabitation is not recommended except in very large aquariums.

This fish enjoys an open swimming space and a decor rich in live rocks, allowing it to graze throughout the day. It moves in the middle to lower areas of the tank, often in motion without hiding.

An Adapted Environment from 200 Liters

The Tomini Surgeonfish can be maintained in a marine aquarium of 200 liters or more, provided that the decor is well-designed. A sandy substrate and several accessible rocks are essential for its well-being. It uses its rasp-like mouth to clean surfaces, actively contributing to the reduction of algae and debris.

This behavior as an indefatigable grazer makes it a valuable assistant for the natural maintenance of the reef tank, complementing the cleaning crew.

Herbivorous and Detritivore Diet

The Ctenochaetus tominiensis follows a herbivorous diet with detritivore tendencies. It naturally feeds on microalgae, biofilms, and organic detritus found on live rocks and decor.

In captivity, its diet should be supplemented with:

• Regularly fixed nori algae on a support.
• Vegetable pellets and spirulina-based flakes.
• Occasional additions of plankton or mysis can enrich its diet, without replacing the plant-based foundation.

This diet helps to enhance its robustness, preserve its colors, and support its active behavior.

A Compact, Efficient, and Very Resilient Surgeonfish

The Ctenochaetus tominiensis is a very resilient and easy-to-maintain fish. It is not prone to diseases and tolerates moderate variations in conditions, provided that the water remains well-oxygenated and the decor is conducive to grazing.

For aquarists looking for an attractive, discreet grazer perfectly suited to a reef aquarium, the Tomini Surgeonfish is an excellent choice from 200 liters.