Common name: Black Surgeonfish

General Information

The Black Surgeonfish, known scientifically as Acanthurus gahhm, is a striking addition to any aquarium, recognized for its dark, almost black body and contrasting white tail. This species is a member of the Acanthuridae family, commonly referred to as surgeonfish or tangs, due to the sharp spines located on either side of their tails, resembling a surgeon's scalpel.

Although not as commonly kept as some other tangs, the Black Surgeonfish is appreciated in the aquarium trade for its unique appearance and active swimming behavior. However, its large size and specific care requirements mean it's best suited for experienced aquarists.

Care

Caring for a Black Surgeonfish requires a large, well-established tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. They thrive in environments that mimic their natural coral reef habitats, which include ample live rock for grazing and exploration. Maintaining stable water conditions with good filtration is crucial for their health.

Due to their size and active nature, a tank of at least 500 liters is recommended. The aquarium should be equipped with strong water movement and sufficient aeration to replicate the currents of their natural habitat.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Black Surgeonfish are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and detritus. In captivity, their diet should consist mainly of marine-based algae and seaweed, supplemented with high-quality herbivore pellets and flakes. Occasional offerings of meaty foods like mysis shrimp can provide additional nutrition.

Feed them several times a day in small amounts, ensuring they have constant access to food to graze on throughout the day. This feeding strategy helps mimic their natural grazing behavior and keeps them healthy.

Behavior and Compatibility

Black Surgeonfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when introduced to new tank mates. They are best kept with other non-aggressive species and should be the only tang in smaller setups to prevent territorial disputes.

Their temperament allows them to coexist with a variety of reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, they may show aggression towards conspecifics or similarly shaped fish, so caution is advised when selecting tank mates.

Reproduction

Breeding Black Surgeonfish in captivity is rare and challenging due to their specific environmental needs and the difficulty of replicating their natural breeding conditions. Little is known about their breeding behavior in the wild, making captive breeding attempts largely experimental.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Black Surgeonfish can live for several years in captivity. Key to their health is maintaining high water quality and a balanced diet. Regular observation for signs of stress or disease, such as ich or marine velvet, is important.

Selecting a healthy specimen involves choosing individuals with vibrant coloration and active swimming behavior. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have visible signs of illness.

Habitat

The Black Surgeonfish is native to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, typically found at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. These environments provide the algae-rich surfaces they graze on and the complex structures they navigate through.

Conservation Status

Currently, the Black Surgeonfish is not listed on the IUCN Red List, indicating there is insufficient data on their population trends and threats. However, maintaining sustainable practices in the aquarium trade is essential to ensure their populations remain healthy in the wild.