Common name: Fowler's surgeonfish

General information

Fowler's Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus fowleri, is a distinctive and attractive marine fish that is appreciated by many aquarists for its unique appearance and active behavior. This species is characterized by its deep blue to purple body coloration with a prominent black spot near the caudal peduncle, which can vary in intensity among individuals. The yellow tail and dorsal fin edges add a striking contrast to its overall coloration.

Care

Fowler's Surgeonfish requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room and a well-established environment with stable water conditions. They are herbivorous and need a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter to maintain their health and vibrant colors. It's important to provide them with a variety of foods, including dried seaweed and specialized herbivore pellets or flakes.

Reproduction

In the wild, Fowler's Surgeonfish are known to form spawning aggregations, but breeding them in captivity is quite challenging. They have complex reproductive behaviors and require specific environmental conditions to successfully reproduce.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, Fowler's Surgeonfish do play a role in the reef ecosystem by grazing on algae, which helps prevent overgrowth and maintain the balance of the reef.

Habitat

Fowler's Surgeonfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoon waters where they can graze on the abundant algae growth.