Common name: Monrovia doctorfish

General information

The Monrovia Doctorfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus monroviae, is a lesser-known member of the surgeonfish family. It is not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as its relatives, but it has a unique charm with its subdued coloration and active swimming behavior. This species is named after Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia, indicating its West African origins.

Care

Monrovia Doctorfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room and a well-established environment. They are herbivores, so their diet should consist primarily of marine algae and vegetable matter. Supplementing with high-quality prepared foods formulated for marine herbivores will help maintain their health and vitality. As with other surgeonfish, they have a sharp spine near the tail, which they use for defense, so caution is advised during handling.

Reproduction

In the wild, Acanthurus monroviae is known to form spawning aggregations, but breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented. Their reproductive habits are similar to other members of the Acanthuridae family, with external fertilization and pelagic larvae.

Habitat

The Monrovia Doctorfish is found in the Eastern Atlantic, from the Gulf of Guinea to Angola. It prefers coastal waters, often in turbid conditions over sandy substrates. In the aquarium, replicating a similar environment with a sandy bottom and ample water flow can help this species feel at home.