Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tang

Also known as the Yellow Eye Kole Tang or Ctenochaetus strigosus.
The Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tang is a small, peaceful tang renowned for its dark brown to black body, bright yellow eyes, and subtle spotting along its sides. Native to the Indo-Pacific, including Hawaii and the Central Pacific, this species is an excellent algae grazer and a hardy addition to reef aquariums. Its calm temperament, constant grazing, and unique eye coloration make it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ctenochaetus strigosus
• Common Names: Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tang, Yellow Eye Kole Tang
• Adult Size: 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with excellent care
• Temperament: Peaceful; compatible with most community fish
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe, does not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (100+ recommended for best results)
• Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate, hardy and adaptable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Found on coral-rich reefs and shallow lagoon areas throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly Hawaii. They thrive in moderate currents with abundant algae for grazing.

Tank Environment:

• Moderate water flow with open swimming areas
• Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
• Stable water parameters with high oxygen levels
• UV sterilizer recommended to reduce parasite exposure

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Protein skimmer
• Moderate circulation pumps
• UV sterilizer for parasite prevention
• Auto-top-off system for stability
• Regular water changes (10–15% weekly)

Diet & Feeding

Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs are primarily herbivorous, grazing constantly on algae. Their specialized teeth help them clean surfaces effectively.

Recommended Foods:

• Nori sheets (green, red, brown)
• Spirulina-based flakes or pellets
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety
• Vitamin-enriched foods for immune support

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 2–3 times daily
• Provide continuous access to algae or nori
• Rotate food types for balanced nutrition

Behavior & Compatibility

Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs are peaceful, slow-moving grazers, making them compatible with most community and reef-safe species. They rarely display aggression and are easy to integrate into established tanks.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: peaceful community fish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, anthias, and most reef-safe species
• Caution with: very aggressive tangs in confined spaces
• Avoid: overcrowding of surgeonfish

Color & Development
They have a dark brown to black body with subtle lateral spots and striking bright yellow eyes. Juveniles may show slightly darker coloration that lightens as they mature. Proper diet and water quality enhance their natural appearance.

Size & Growth:
Juveniles are typically 1–2 inches and grow steadily to 4–5 inches as adults.

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimate for 30–45 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide immediate access to algae and hiding areas
• Avoid adding to new or unstable tanks

Health Considerations:
Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs are hardy but can be prone to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) or HLLE if diet or water quality is inadequate.

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Active grazing and swimming
• Clear eyes and smooth fins
• Strong appetite and healthy coloration
• No flashing or labored breathing

Special Considerations

Quarantine is Recommended:
Quarantined Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs have higher survival rates, are conditioned to prepared foods, and are free from parasites. Dr Reef’s quarantine protocol ensures each fish is:

• Observed and treated preventatively
• Conditioned to aquarium diet
• Stabilized before shipment

Breeding Potential

Breeding Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs in captivity is extremely rare due to their grazing behavior and schooling tendencies. Most spawning occurs in large, stable reef systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tang?

Quarantined Yellow Eye Spotted Kole Tangs settle faster, eat readily, and adapt efficiently to aquarium life. Their health, coloration, and natural grazing behavior are ensured, making them a hardy and peaceful addition to reef aquariums.