Description
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Acanthurus dussumieri, commonly known as Dussumier's surgeonfish or Eyestripe surgeonfish, is a species of tropical marine fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. Here are some key features and information about this species:
Appearance: Dussumier's surgeonfish has an elongated, oval-shaped body with a pointed snout and small mouth. The body is laterally compressed, and the caudal fin (tail) is crescent-shaped. The coloration of this fish can vary depending on its mood and environment. It typically has a bluish-gray body with a yellow tail and a prominent vertical stripe running through its eye.
Size: They can grow up to a maximum length of around 30 centimeters (12 inches), although most individuals are smaller, usually ranging between 15 to 25 centimeters (6 to 10 inches) in length.
Distribution: This species is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its range extends from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Indian Ocean islands, including the Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius. It can also be found in the waters around Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, and northern Australia.
Habitat: Dussumier's surgeonfish typically inhabit shallow coral reef environments, including lagoons and reef slopes. They are known to frequent areas with abundant coral growth, as they feed primarily on algae and detritus found on rocks and corals.
Behavior: Like other surgeonfish, Dussumier's surgeonfish possesses a sharp, scalpel-like spine, known as a "scalpel" or "tang," on both sides of the base of its tail. These spines are used for defense against predators and are capable of inflicting painful wounds. However, they are generally not aggressive towards humans unless provoked or threatened.
Diet: As herbivorous fish, Dussumier's surgeonfish primarily feeds on filamentous algae, benthic algae, and detritus. They use their specialized mouth structure and teeth to scrape algae off rocks and corals.
- Care level: Difficult
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Herbivore
- Reef Compatible: Yes
- Family: Acanthuridae
- Minimum Tank Size: 360 gallons
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Size:
Small: 1" to 2"
Medium: 2" to 3"
Large: 3" to 4"
Extra Large: 5"+