Common name: Lined Surgeonfish

General Information

The Lined Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus lineatus, is a striking marine fish recognized for its bold blue, yellow, and black stripes. This species is a popular choice among aquarists due to its vivid coloration and dynamic presence in the aquarium. However, it requires careful consideration before being added to a home tank due to its specific care needs and territorial nature.

In the wild, the Lined Surgeonfish plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by grazing on algae, thus preventing algal overgrowth that can harm coral ecosystems. Despite its beauty, this species is not for the faint-hearted, as it demands a large tank and experienced care.

Care

Caring for a Lined Surgeonfish requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots created from live rock. A tank of at least 500 liters is recommended to accommodate their active nature and territorial behavior. They thrive in stable water conditions with good filtration and regular water changes.

This species is best kept in a reef environment with ample hiding places and open swimming areas. They are known for their territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks, so providing enough space is crucial to minimize aggression.

Diet and Feeding

Lined Surgeonfish are primarily herbivores, and their diet in the wild consists mainly of algae. In captivity, they should be offered a diet rich in marine algae, spirulina, and seaweed sheets. Supplementing their diet with high-quality herbivore pellets and occasional vegetable matter can help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Feed them two to three times a day, ensuring they have enough to eat but not so much that it affects water quality. Their constant grazing habit means they benefit from frequent, smaller meals.

Behavior and Compatibility

Known for their semi-aggressive nature, Lined Surgeonfish can be territorial, especially towards other tangs or similar-shaped fish. They are best kept as the only tang in the aquarium unless housed in a very large tank with plenty of space.

They can coexist with a variety of other reef-safe species, but caution is advised when introducing new fish, as they may exhibit aggression initially. Providing ample hiding spaces and a well-structured environment can help reduce stress and territorial disputes.

Reproduction

Breeding Lined Surgeonfish in captivity is rare and challenging due to their specific environmental needs and complex social behaviors. They are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, which makes captive breeding efforts difficult.

Health and Common Issues

Lined Surgeonfish are prone to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet. Maintaining optimal water quality and a stress-free environment is key to preventing these issues. It is crucial to quarantine new additions to the tank to prevent the introduction of diseases.

Habitat

This species is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral-rich areas and are often found in shallow lagoons and seaward reefs where they can graze on algae.

Lined Surgeonfish prefer warm, tropical waters with plenty of live rock and coral structures to explore and graze upon. They thrive in environments that replicate the natural conditions of their native habitats.