You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Ocean Surgeonfish

Ocean surgeon

Acanthurus bahianus

Today's Research for Tomorrow's Oceans

Come visit me at Mote!

Mote SEA

Support Mote Animals

Fun Facts

These fish may change colors as a form of communication and during spawning season.

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Ocean surgeon

Size:

On average, ocean surgeon grow to be 12 inches (30.5 centimeters) in length.

Diet:

These fish are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They feed on various algae and small invertebrates.

Range & Habitat:

Occurring in the Gulf of Mexico, eastern and western Atlantic, ocean surgeon inhabit shallow waters near rock and coral formations.

Details:

Ocean surgeonfish have oval bodies, ranging from yellow to pale green-gray, with dark blue fins and bands of orange and green. With small mouths, they scrape algae off rocks and coral, helping prevent overgrowth and maintain healthy coral reefs.