Why is my tang going crazy at the glass?

SweaterVest · 2024-09-18T13:25:30-0400

#fishmedic -- I really don't know if this qualifies as the proper place for this question, as I do not see physical signs of disease (spots, patches etc). It's more of a behavioral question, however after a couple of experiences with parasites I am prone to alarm when I notice unusual behavior. My lavender tang is acting strangely last few days, he twitches against the glass, and is more "twitchy" in general. Although I've only had him for a few weeks, he was a pretty "settled" but active fish before this new behavior. Anything I should worry about?

exnisstech · 2024-09-18T13:29:49-0400

Looks like normal bristletooth behavior to me. My convict scrapes the glass all day I assume its eating film algae.

PharmrJohn · 2024-09-18T13:30:14-0400

I ain't a fish medic but I can postulate two possibilities. 1.) It's eating some of the algae film on the glass or 2.) If it's dark on the outside of the tank and light on the inside, it may be catching its own reflection. They react to reflection as a possible negative encounter

Uncle99 · 2024-09-18T13:32:35-0400

Nothing to be concerned about.
Turn off the light and see if he stops.

littlefoxx · 2024-09-18T13:36:13-0400

Looks like he doesnt like his reflection to me and thinks its another tang

vetteguy53081 · 2024-09-18T13:40:38-0400

SweaterVest said:
#fishmedic -- I really don't know if this qualifies as the proper place for this question, as I do not see physical signs of disease (spots, patches etc). It's more of a behavioral question, however after a couple of experiences with parasites I am prone to alarm when I notice unusual behavior. My lavender tang is acting strangely last few days, he twitches against the glass, and is more "twitchy" in general. Although I've only had him for a few weeks, he was a pretty "settled" but active fish before this new behavior. Anything I should worry about?

Its called glass surfing and often triggered by chasing their own reflection from the glass. Just assure it does not result in injury similar to " rug burn".

Jay Hemdal · 2024-09-18T16:29:29-0400

I agree, it could be feeding on a light growth of algae, or it could be "glass surfing" due to seeing its reflection, or from stress. One thing you want to look out for is if sometimes, this behavior is focused on rocks - that is called flashing/scratching, and can be a sign of flukes.