The Bleeker’s Surgeonfish, Blue-lined Surgeonfish, Elongate Surgeonfish, Mata Surgeonfish, Pale Surgeon, Striped Surgeonfish, White-tail Lancet, Yellowmask Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus mata, is a striking and commonly encountered surgeonfish species inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
Acanthurus mata is characterized by its elongated body shape, reaching a maximum size of 50.0 cm. The fish exhibits a distinct pattern of blue stripes running vertically along its sides, fading into a pale yellow coloration towards the ventral region. Its most prominent feature is the yellow “mask” that covers its face, extending from the snout to the eyes, giving it the common name “Yellowmask Surgeonfish.” This species can be identified by its prominent, laterally compressed body, a characteristic shared with other surgeonfish. Notably, Acanthurus mata possesses a scalpel-like spine located near its tail, a defining feature of the surgeonfish family. This sharp spine, used defensively, is concealed in a groove on either side of the tail when not in use.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acanthurus mata, being a reef-associated species, thrives in shallow coastal waters and coral reefs. This surgeonfish exhibits a preference for clear, warm, and well-oxygenated waters. It is commonly found in a depth range of 5.0 – 100.0 meters, making it a common sight in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky shores. Acanthurus mata is often observed near the sea floor, exploring the rich algae and invertebrates found in these environments. Their presence is felt across various marine zones, making them a prevalent sight in both tropical and subtropical regions.
Taxonomy
Acanthurus mata belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This classification places it within a diverse group of fish characterized by their sharp scalpel-like spines and their herbivorous feeding habits.
Feeding
The diet of Acanthurus mata primarily consists of algae, but they are also known to occasionally consume small invertebrates. This includes a variety of algae species, brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), krill, and mysis. Their role in the ecosystem as herbivores makes them a crucial part of the food chain, helping to control the growth of algae and maintaining the health of coral reefs.
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