The Blackcheek Surgeonfish, Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, Yellowspot Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus tristis, is a captivating species of fish belonging to the surgeonfish family. This vibrantly colored and intriguing fish is a popular choice for both home aquariums and marine ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Acanthurus tristis, commonly known as the Blackcheek Surgeonfish, Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, or Yellowspot Surgeonfish, is a striking fish with a unique and captivating appearance. It exhibits a distinctive body shape, characterized by a compressed and elongated profile. The fish possesses a striking yellow coloration, often with a hint of green, that adorns its body, complemented by a distinct black stripe extending from the mouth to the gill cover. This black stripe gives rise to one of its common names, the “Blackcheek Surgeonfish.” The dorsal fin, adorned with a bright yellow margin, further enhances its visual appeal. Acanthurus tristis can attain a maximum size of 25.0 cm, making it a moderately sized fish.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Blackcheek Surgeonfish, Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, Yellowspot Surgeonfish, Acanthurus tristis, is a common sight in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. These fish prefer shallow reef environments, typically residing at depths ranging from 2.0 to 30.0 meters. They are particularly abundant in the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, demonstrating a predilection for these vibrant and diverse ecosystems. Acanthurus tristis thrives in areas with abundant coral growth, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. The fish is commonly found in marine zones such as the Indo-Pacific, where it thrives within the coral reefs and surrounding waters.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus tristis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This classification highlights its association with the diverse and fascinating world of bony fishes, specifically within the order of surgeonfishes and the family of surgeonfishes, respectively.
Feeding
The Blackcheek Surgeonfish, Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, Yellowspot Surgeonfish, Acanthurus tristis, is an herbivorous fish. Its diet mainly consists of algae, which it grazes on from the coral reefs. In captive environments, they can be fed a diet of algae-based flakes, frozen food such as brine shrimps, mysis, and zooplankton, providing them with the necessary nutrients for optimal health and well-being.
Image References