Common name: Whitefin surgeonfish

General information

The Whitecheek Surgeonfish, also known as the Powder Brown Tang, is a striking marine fish that adds both beauty and grace to any saltwater aquarium. It is known for its distinctive white cheek markings and the brownish to purplish body with a lighter dorsal area. This species is a member of the Acanthuridae family, which is renowned for the scalpel-like spine located on the caudal peduncle, used for defense.

Care

Whitecheek Surgeonfish require a spacious tank with plenty of swimming room and a well-established environment with stable water conditions. They are herbivorous and thrive on a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter. Supplementing their diet with vitamins and frozen preparations can help maintain their immune system and vibrant coloration. It's important to note that they can be prone to skin flukes and other parasitic infections if water quality is not maintained.

Reproduction

In the wild, Whitecheek Surgeonfish are known to form spawning aggregations, and their reproduction involves pelagic spawning where eggs and sperm are released into the water column. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare and not well documented.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship, the Whitecheek Surgeonfish does play a role in the reef ecosystem by grazing on algae, which helps prevent overgrowth that can be detrimental to coral health.

Habitat

The Whitecheek Surgeonfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and as far south as Australia. They are typically found in clear lagoon and seaward reefs, often in areas with strong currents.