
Acanthurus leucocheilus
| Identification | A dark bluish-brown surgeonfish with a pale white band across the chin and lower face and a fine white margin at the tail base. Also called the Pale-lipped Surgeonfish. |
|---|---|
| Maximum Length | 13.8″ |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific |
| Minimum Tank Size | 180 Gallon |
| Reef Compatibility | Reef safe. Grazes algae and does not harm corals or invertebrates. |
Behavior
An active, hardy Acanthurus tang that needs strong flow, high oxygen and a lot of open swimming room. Can be aggressive toward other tangs, especially similar species, so introduce it last and provide space. Constant swimmer.
Diet & Feeding
Marine algae and dried seaweed (nori) offered daily, supplemented with mysis, enriched brine and prepared herbivore foods.
Cautions
Tang aggression — house with other surgeonfish only in large tanks. Prone to ich if stressed; stable conditions are key.
