Doctorfish

Acanthurus chirurgus

Family : Acanthuridae

FishMarinesurgeonfish

Common Atlantic surgeonfish, recognizable by its dark vertical stripes and sharp caudal spine.

Doctorfish — photo 1 sur 4
Rex shock Richard A. Ingebrigtsen · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4
Popularity
Advanced marine fish
large tank + demanding parameters
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

The doctorfish is a medium-sized marine fish (up to 30 cm) with an oval, laterally compressed body. Its coloration is gray-brown with 10 to 12 dark vertical bars. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. It is an herbivore that grazes on algae and can be kept in an aquarium with other peaceful fish.

Habitat

Region :

Coral reefs, seagrass beds and rocky areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
300 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
30 cm
Lifespan
8 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation

Care notes

Tank of at least 300 liters with rockwork and algae to graze. Stable water, salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Beware of the caudal spine when handling. Feed with dried algae, spirulina-based pellets, and fresh vegetables. Can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References