Lined Bristletooth
Ctenochaetus striatus
Lined Bristletooth is a small surgeonfish with thin horizontal lines and a bristly, comb-like mouth used to scrape algae and detritus from hard surfaces. It is a reef-associated species across the Indo-Pacific and is often seen grazing in shallow lagoons and outer reef areas.
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Identification points
- Numerous thin dark horizontal stripes running from head to tail
- Small bristle-like teeth forming a scraping mouth
- Deep, oval body with a tan to brownish base color and pale fins
Habitat
Coral reefs, reef flats, lagoon slopes, and seaward reef faces, usually over hard substrate with good algal growth; commonly shallow to about 30 m.
Bait notes
Not a traditional target species and is rarely taken deliberately. If attempted, tiny algae-based offerings, nori, or finely chopped shrimp can interest it in an aquarium or close-quarters setting; small plant-scented micro-jigs are more relevant for observation than angling.
Behavior
Diurnal grazer that picks at filamentous algae, detritus, and benthic film from rock and coral surfaces. Often stays close to reef structure and may occur singly or in small loose groups.
Caution
Handle carefully: like all surgeonfishes it has a sharp caudal spine that can cut. Some reef fishes can accumulate ciguatera in certain locations, so local consumption advisories matter.
Fishing notes
Best considered a reef fish for viewing rather than angling. It has a small mouth and picks lightly, so conventional hook-and-line fishing is inefficient and can damage reef habitat; avoid targeting it on live coral reefs.