Chocolate Surgeonfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Image:Acanthurus pyroferus.jpg
Although the Chocolate Surgeonfish is not one of the more aggressive species in the genus, it is best to keep only one adult per tank. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
This durable fish feeds on filamentous algae and diatoms. Its juvenile color mimics either the Lemonpeel Angelfish (Centropyge loriculus) or the Half Black Angelfish (C. vroliki). As it grows to a size that exceeds that of the angelfish model, it begins to develop its adult coloration, brown with an orange vertical splash behind the gills.
Family: Acanthuridae
Other common name(s):
- Mimic Surgeonfish
- Orange-gilled Surgeonfish
- Yellowspot Surgeon
Native range:
Habitat: In the wild, this species prefers area of mixed coral, rock, or sand at the base of reefs or ledges and is found in lagoon and seaward reefs.
Maximum length: 25 cm (10 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 380 L (100 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Feed a mixed diet, the bulk of which should consist of vegetable matter. Give it frozen foods that contain the blue-green algae Spirulina, slices of zucchini, broccoli, and dried algae flakes or sheets. Vegetable matter should be introduced daily in an aquarium where algae is not present, and frozen foods should also be presented several times a day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
It is not one of the more aggressive species, but will defend a preferred hiding place and may pick on a newcomer added to a smaller tank. Keep only one adult per tank. Juveniles of different colors will coexist.
| Common name | Chocolate Surgeonfish +, Mimic Surgeonfish +, Orange-gilled Surgeonfish +, and Yellowspot Surgeon + |
| Family | Acanthuridae + |
| Genus | Acanthurus + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 10 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 100 gal + |
| Native range | Seychelles +, Marquesan Islands +, Tuamotu Islands +, Southern Japan +, Great Barrier Reef +, and New Caledonia + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | pyroferus + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |