Common name: Chocolate surgeonfish

General information

Thompson's Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus thompsoni, is a tropical marine fish known for its striking appearance and active behavior. It is characterized by its oval body shape, vibrant coloration, and the distinctive 'surgeon's scalpel'—a sharp spine on the caudal peduncle used for defense.

This species is often appreciated for its algae-grazing habits, which can help control algae growth in the aquarium. It is also a schooling fish in the wild, often found in large groups grazing on algae-covered substrates.

Care

Thompson's Surgeonfish requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room and a well-established live rock setup to mimic its natural habitat. The tank should also have strong water movement and excellent filtration to maintain high water quality. A varied diet of marine-based algae and meaty foods is essential for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Thompson's Surgeonfish spawn in groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic before settling down and growing into juveniles. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging due to their spawning behavior.

Habitat

Thompson's Surgeonfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian and Tuamoto Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often in clear waters at depths ranging from the shallows to about 30 meters.

Their natural environment is rich in coral and algae, which provides both food and shelter. In the aquarium, replicating this environment is key to their well-being.