Common name: Bbuelined surgeonfish

General information

The Whitecheek Surgeonfish, also known as the Goldrim Surgeonfish or Whitecheek Tang, is a striking marine fish that adds both beauty and character to a saltwater aquarium. Acanthurus nigroris is known for its distinctive white cheek and the golden-yellow rim that outlines its body, giving it a regal appearance. This species is part of the Acanthuridae family, which includes other popular surgeonfish and tangs known for their utility in controlling algae growth in the reef aquarium.

Care

Caring for the Whitecheek Surgeonfish requires a spacious tank to accommodate its active swimming habits and potential growth up to 8 inches in length. They thrive in a well-established system with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. A varied diet is crucial, consisting of marine algae, seaweed, and meaty foods to maintain their health and coloration. It's important to note that they have a sharp spine near the tail, which they use for defense, so caution is advised during tank maintenance.

Reproduction

In the wild, Acanthurus nigroris exhibits a group-spawning behavior where several individuals release eggs and sperm simultaneously into the water column. These pelagic spawners have not been commonly bred in captivity, making most aquarium specimens wild-caught. Efforts to breed them in home aquariums are rare and require a large, dedicated system to mimic their natural spawning conditions.

Habitat

The Whitecheek Surgeonfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer clear lagoon and seaward reefs, often seen in depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes coral-rich areas and steep outer reef slopes where they can graze on algae.