Ocean Surgeonfish

Ocean Surgeonfish

Acanthurus bahianus

Identification Grayish to brownish body that can shift dramatically in shade. The tail has a white margin and a yellow crescent at its base. Often confused with the Doctorfish but distinguished by the absence of vertical bars.
Maximum Length Up to 14 inches (35 cm)
Origin Western Atlantic — Massachusetts to Brazil, Caribbean
Minimum Tank Size 150 gallons
Reef Compatible Yes

Behavior

An Atlantic tang that is more commonly seen in public aquariums than private reef tanks. Peaceful and adaptable, it works well in large Caribbean-themed aquariums. Grazes constantly on algae, making it useful for algae control.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivore. Provide dried seaweed, spirulina, and algae-based pellets. Naturally grazes on benthic algae in shallow coastal reefs.