Clown Surgeonfish Profile

Scientific Name:

Acanthurus lineatus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Other Common Names:

Lined Surgeonfish, Striped Surgeonfish.

Distribution:

Found widespread in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Identification:

The upper part of its body of a light yellow-orange color, and belly a light gray-blue, accented with its blue outlined by black horizontal lines

Maximum Size:

To 15".

Characteristics & Compatibility:

The Clown Surgeonfish perfers to inhabit the oxygen and marine algae enriched shallower waters of the reef. Being in the Surgeonfish Family it has all the typical traits, such as the characteristic sharp razor-like spur or spine on the caudal peduncle, it does not get along well with other same or similar species, it needs plenty of open room to move around, but also requires ample cover for hiding. The difference between this Surgeonfish compared to others is that it is one of the more aggressive species, it has larger caudal peduncle spurs than most other Surgeonfishes, and it does not hesitate to use them!

Diet & Feeding:

This fish is a herbivore. Its main diet consists of large filamentous marine algae, and some smaller types of macroalgae. It can be a little more picky and difficult to feed than other Surgeonfishes, and sometimes juveniles that have not been eating properly do not adjust well to aquarium life. On occasion, some specimens may pick at large polyped stony corals if not provided with an ample diet. Therefore, it cannot be trusted as being completely reef safe.

For more information about the characteristics, feeding and captive care of this fish and other Surgeonfishes, refer to our Tang & Surgeonfish Family Profile.

Minimum Tank Size:

125 gallon.

Reef Tank Suitable?:

Yes.

Guide Notes:

We give the Clown Surgeonfish a *** Fish Care Rating Level, but only if in excellent health! We found these fish to be very personable, but some specimens could be very shy or nervous, as well as aggressive, with some of them being hard to get to eat at times. In our opinion, they are an unpredictable fish and can be rather touchy to deal with.