The Convict Surgeonfish, Convict Tang, or Fiveband Surgeonfish (Acanthurus triostegus) is a vibrant and popular marine fish species known for its distinctive black and yellow stripes. This species is a common sight in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, captivating aquarists and marine enthusiasts alike with its beauty and relatively easy care.
Description & Characteristics
The Acanthurus triostegus is a moderately sized fish, reaching a maximum length of 27.0 cm. Its most striking feature is its body pattern: a series of five prominent black bands alternating with yellow ones, giving rise to its common names. The body is laterally compressed and oval-shaped, with a slightly pointed snout and a small, terminal mouth. The dorsal fin extends along the back, while the anal fin is positioned below the dorsal fin, mirroring its shape. The caudal fin is rounded, and a sharp, scalpel-like spine is situated near the base of the tail, a characteristic feature of surgeonfishes. This spine, used for defense, is also where the species gets its “surgeon” moniker.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Acanthurus triostegus exhibits a broad distribution, inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species is commonly found in the reefs and lagoons of these areas, where it is particularly abundant. Its depth range spans from the surface down to 90.0 meters, suggesting its adaptability to various reef environments. The Acanthurus triostegus is a common sight in the Indo-Pacific region’s marine zones, including the Red Sea, the eastern coast of Africa, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, including Australia, the Hawaiian Islands, and the Marquesas Islands.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus triostegus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This classification places the species within a group of fish known for their distinct scalpel-like spines near their tails.
Feeding
The Acanthurus triostegus is primarily herbivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of algae. This includes both benthic algae, growing on the reef floor, and filamentous algae. Its diet can also include aquatic plants, and they are known to readily consume a variety of foods like banana, dandelion, lettuce, and nori-algae. Their diet also includes small invertebrates, including brine shrimps, krill, and mysis. This diverse diet contributes to their role in maintaining the balance of reef ecosystems. In captivity, Acanthurus triostegus can be readily fed a variety of commercially available foods like flakes, frozen food, and even nori sheets.
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