Common name: Bluelined Surgeonfish

General Information

The Bluelined Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus nigroris, is a captivating species admired for its striking appearance and dynamic behavior. This marine fish is part of the Acanthuridae family, which includes surgeonfish, tangs, and unicornfish. Its name is derived from the distinctive blue lines that adorn its body, along with its blackish coloration that becomes more pronounced with age.

While not as commonly seen in home aquariums as some other surgeonfish, the Bluelined Surgeonfish is valued for its role in controlling algae growth, making it a beneficial addition for hobbyists looking to maintain a balanced ecosystem. In the wild, these fish play a crucial role in the health of coral reefs by grazing on algae that might otherwise overwhelm the coral.

Care

Caring for the Bluelined Surgeonfish requires some experience, as they are moderately challenging to keep. They thrive in large, well-established tanks that can accommodate their active swimming habits. A tank with plenty of open space for swimming, along with ample live rock for grazing, is ideal. This setup not only mimics their natural environment but also helps in maintaining their health and well-being.

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for this species, as they are sensitive to fluctuations. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to keep the water quality high. Their diet should include a variety of marine-based algae and vegetable matter, supplemented with high-quality pellets or flakes designed for herbivorous fish.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, Bluelined Surgeonfish primarily graze on algae, which is a critical part of their diet. In captivity, replicating this diet is important for their health. Offering a variety of algae-based foods, such as spirulina, nori, and marine algae sheets, can help satisfy their dietary needs. It is also beneficial to supplement their diet with herbivore-specific pellets and occasional offerings of fresh vegetables like zucchini and spinach.

Feed them small amounts multiple times a day to mimic their natural grazing behavior and prevent overfeeding, which can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

Bluelined Surgeonfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when housed with similar species. They do best in community tanks with other peaceful species. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to tanks with other surgeonfish, as they may exhibit aggression towards conspecifics or similarly shaped fish.

They are reef-safe, making them suitable for reef aquariums, but their territorial nature should be considered when planning tank mates.

Health and Common Issues

Bluelined Surgeonfish are prone to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet, especially if stressed or kept in suboptimal conditions. Ensuring a stable environment with proper nutrition and regular monitoring can help prevent these issues. Quarantining new additions and maintaining good water quality are effective measures to safeguard their health.

Habitat

Bluelined Surgeonfish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit coral reefs and rocky coastal areas. They are typically found at depths ranging from 2 to 40 meters, where they graze on algae.

Creating a habitat that mimics these conditions, with plenty of live rock and stable water parameters, will help them thrive in captivity.