Common name: Brown surgeonfish

General information

The Brown Surgeonfish, also known as the Lavender Tang or Spot-Cheeked Surgeonfish, is a marine fish species belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It is recognized for its overall brown to grayish-purple body coloration and the distinctive orange spot near the caudal peduncle, which is more pronounced in juveniles. As they mature, the color may become more subdued.

Acanthurus nigrofuscus is a herbivorous species that plays a significant role in controlling algae growth on coral reefs. They are active swimmers and can often be seen grazing on algae throughout the day.

Care

In the aquarium, Brown Surgeonfish require a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing. They are generally peaceful but can become territorial with other surgeonfish, especially in smaller tanks. A varied diet of marine algae, seaweed, and high-quality herbivore preparations will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Brown Surgeonfish are known to form large spawning aggregations. However, breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved by hobbyists. They exhibit broadcast spawning, where eggs and sperm are released into the water column.

Habitat

Acanthurus nigrofuscus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoon waters, often in areas with robust algal growth. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.

Their presence in a reef aquarium can be beneficial as they actively graze on algae, helping to control its growth and contributing to the overall health of the tank ecosystem.