Common name: surgeonfishes

General information

The Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus tristis, is a captivating species that adds both beauty and intrigue to a marine aquarium. This species is known for its unique behavior of mimicking the juvenile form of the Orange-lined Triggerfish (Balistapus undulatus), which is believed to be a strategy to avoid predation. The Mimic Surgeonfish has a deep body with a distinctive color pattern that changes as it matures, transitioning from an orange base with blue lines to a more subdued brownish hue with fainter lines as an adult.

Care

Acanthurus tristis requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space and a well-established environment with live rock for grazing on natural algae. They are active swimmers and need room to move freely. A varied diet is crucial for their health, including marine algae, spirulina, and meaty foods like mysis shrimp. Consistent water quality and parameters are essential to prevent stress and diseases common to surgeonfish, such as marine ich (Cryptocaryon irritans).

Reproduction

In the wild, Acanthurus tristis exhibits a group-spawning behavior where several males court and spawn with females. However, breeding them in captivity is challenging due to their complex life cycle and larval requirements. Hobbyists typically do not breed this species in home aquariums.

Habitat

The Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish is native to the Indian Ocean, particularly around coral reefs and lagoons. They are often found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 25 meters. Their natural range extends from the eastern coast of Africa, across the Indian Ocean, to Indonesia and the Andaman Sea.