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Mimic surgeonfish

Acanthurus pyroferus

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Fun Facts

This species of fish has only been spotted in Florida once, in 2014!

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Mimic surgeonfish

Size:

These fish reach a maximum length of 11.4 inches (29 centimeters).

Diet:

Mimic surgeonfish eat sponges, algae, sea squirts, marine debris and plankton.

Range & Habitat:

In the western Pacific Ocean and southeastern Indian Ocean, mimic surgeonfish inhabit lagoons and rocky/sandy bottom coral communities.

Details:

Mimic surgeonfish use their coloration to blend into certain environments and avoid predators. Like other surgeonfish, they have sharp, scalpel-like spines on either side of their tail that they use for defense when threatened.