The Blue Barber, Blue Doctor, Blue Doctorfish, Blue Tang, Blue Tang Surgeonfish, Yellow Barber, Yellow Doctorfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus coeruleus, is a captivating marine fish renowned for its vibrant blue coloration and distinctive surgeonfish characteristics. This species exhibits a remarkable range of common names, reflecting its diverse appearances and behaviors observed across its distribution.
Description & Characteristics
Reaching a maximum size of 39.0 cm, the Acanthurus coeruleus is a medium-sized fish distinguished by its predominantly electric blue body. The body shape is characteristically compressed and elongated, resembling a scalpel or a surgeon’s tool, hence the common name “surgeonfish.” The fish possesses a prominent, sharp spine located near the tail, which serves as a defense mechanism against predators. Juveniles often display a yellow hue, gradually transitioning to blue with maturity.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Acanthurus coeruleus thrives in a variety of marine habitats, spanning the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic. This depth range signifies its adaptability to different water conditions and underscores its presence in both coastal and offshore environments. Their preference for these specific zones makes them a common sight in diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus coeruleus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This classification places it within the broader group of bony fishes, specifically within the order of surgeonfishes and their relatives. The family Acanthuridae encompasses a diverse array of fishes characterized by their distinctive scalpel-like spines and their primarily herbivorous diet.
Feeding
The Acanthurus coeruleus is primarily herbivorous, feeding predominantly on algae, including Nori-Algae. Its diet can also include zooplankton, brine shrimps, and various frozen food options like krill and mysis. The fish’s feeding habits are crucial for maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems, as they help to control the growth of algae and prevent overgrazing of essential coral polyps.
Image References