Common name: Streifen-Doktor

General information

The Doctorfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus chirurgus, is a popular marine fish among aquarists due to its striking appearance and active behavior. It is characterized by its deep blue to purple body with bold, bright yellow vertical stripes. The common name 'surgeonfish' is derived from the sharp spine or 'scalpel' located on the caudal peduncle, which the fish uses for defense.

Care

Doctorfish require a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and a well-established environment with live rock for grazing on algae. They are herbivores and need a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter to maintain their health and coloration. It's important to provide a varied diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Reproduction

In the wild, Doctorfish engage in group spawning where many individuals release eggs and sperm into the water column simultaneously. These eggs are pelagic, meaning they float with the currents until hatching. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging due to their spawning behavior.

Habitat

Native to the Atlantic Ocean, Doctorfish are commonly found in coral reefs, rocky areas, and seagrass beds. They are a schooling species and often seen in groups, especially as juveniles. In the wild, they can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 25 meters.

Geographical distribution includes the Western Atlantic from Massachusetts, USA and Bermuda to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.