Acanthurus tristis
| Identification | Juveniles closely mimic the Eibli Angel (Centropyge eibli) with a similar body pattern. Adults develop a yellowish face, dark body with a blue-highlighted anal fin and orange-tipped dorsal fin. |
| Maximum Length | Up to 10 inches (25 cm) |
| Origin | Indian Ocean — Sri Lanka, Maldives, Indonesia |
| Minimum Tank Size | 150 gallons |
| Reef Compatible | Yes |
Behavior
The juvenile mimicry of the Eibli Angelfish is believed to offer protection, as the angelfish is avoided by smaller predatory fish. Adults lose this pattern and develop their own distinct coloration. A peaceful and hardy tang in aquarium settings.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivore. Supplement with daily offerings of dried seaweed, spirulina, and algae-based pellets. Accepts frozen mysis and brine shrimp as occasional protein supplements.