The Achilles Tang, Redspot Surgeonfish, Red-spotted Surgeonfish, Redtail Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus achilles, is a captivating marine fish renowned for its striking coloration and distinctive features. This species, belonging to the surgeonfish family, is a common inhabitant of coral reefs and rocky shores, showcasing a remarkable adaptation to its environment.
Description & Characteristics
Acanthurus achilles exhibits a vibrant color scheme, characterized by a deep blue body accented by a prominent red spot on its tail. This distinctive red marking gives the fish its common names, further distinguishing it from other surgeonfish species. The body shape is typically elongated and laterally compressed, with a slightly pointed snout. The Achilles Tang can reach a maximum size of 24.0 cm, making it a moderately sized surgeonfish. Its fins are relatively large and fan-shaped, adding to its elegant appearance. A defining characteristic of Acanthurus achilles, and all surgeonfish, is the presence of a sharp, retractable scalpel-like spine located near the tail. This spine, used as a defensive mechanism, is a primary feature that gives the surgeonfish its common name.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acanthurus achilles prefers shallow, tropical waters, with a depth range of 0.0 to 10.0 meters. It is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the coral reefs, rocky shores, and lagoons. The species thrives in marine zones characterized by abundant algae and invertebrate populations, providing it with a diverse range of food sources.
Taxonomy
Acanthurus achilles, belonging to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae, is a member of the large and diverse surgeonfish family. The family Acanthuridae encompasses a wide range of species, known for their striking appearances and their characteristic scalpel-like spines near their tails.
Feeding
Acanthurus achilles is primarily herbivorous, feeding on a wide variety of algae, including both macroalgae and phytoplankton. Its diet also includes small invertebrates like brine shrimps, krill, and zooplankton. The Achilles Tang can be successfully maintained in aquariums, where it can be fed commercially available foods such as flakes, pellets, and frozen food (large sort). Their diet can also be supplemented with seaweed, such as Nori, and other green foods like dandelion.
Image References