The Black-barred Surgeonfish, Multibar Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus polyzona, is a captivating species of fish belonging to the surgeonfish family, Acanthuridae. These vibrant fish are recognizable by their striking black bars and are a popular addition to marine aquariums.
Description & Characteristics
The Acanthurus polyzona is a relatively small species, reaching a maximum size of 11.0 cm. Their body is elongated and compressed laterally, displaying a striking color pattern. The fish’s overall body color is typically a bright yellow or orange, adorned with a series of distinct black vertical bars that extend from the dorsal fin to the ventral fin. These bars provide excellent camouflage among coral reefs, allowing the fish to blend in with their surroundings.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Black-barred Surgeonfish, Multibar Surgeonfish, Acanthurus polyzona, is commonly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They are prevalent in coral reefs and rocky areas, often inhabiting depths ranging from the surface to approximately 40 meters (130 feet). These fish are particularly well-adapted to life in these environments, utilizing their unique color patterns for camouflage and their powerful tails for navigating the intricate coral formations.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus polyzona belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This classification places them within a diverse group of fish known for their distinctive scalpel-like spines, which they use for defense against predators.
Feeding
The Acanthurus polyzona is an herbivorous fish, primarily feeding on algae and other plant matter. In a captive environment, they can be fed a variety of foods including brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), and mysis.
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