The Blue Banded Surgeonfish, Blue-lined Surgeonfish, Clown Surgeonfish, Lined Surgeonfish, Striped Surgeon, Striped Surgeonfish, Zebra Surgeonfish, scientifically known as Acanthurus lineatus, is a vibrant and striking fish species found in tropical and subtropical waters. This fascinating creature is easily recognized by its unique and beautiful coloration.
Description & Characteristics
Acanthurus lineatus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 38.0 cm. It exhibits a striking color pattern with a bright yellow body adorned with numerous, thin, vertical blue lines that give it its various common names. These lines can appear more prominent on the fish’s head and tail, creating a striking contrast against the yellow background. The fish also possesses a scalpel-like spine located at the base of its tail, a characteristic feature of the surgeonfish family. This spine serves as a defensive mechanism and can inflict a painful wound if the fish feels threatened.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Blue Banded Surgeonfish, Blue-lined Surgeonfish, Clown Surgeonfish, Lined Surgeonfish, Striped Surgeon, Striped Surgeonfish, Zebra Surgeonfish (Acanthurus lineatus) is a common inhabitant of coral reefs and rocky shores in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. It thrives in shallow waters, typically found within a depth range of 0.0 to 15.0 meters. This species is often observed in shallow lagoons and seaward reefs, where it benefits from the abundant algae growth and the protection offered by the reef structure.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus lineatus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This family, known as the surgeonfishes, comprises over 80 species of colorful and fascinating fish. Their unique scalpel-like spine at the base of their tail, which they use for defense, is a distinguishing feature of the family.
Feeding
The Blue Banded Surgeonfish, Blue-lined Surgeonfish, Clown Surgeonfish, Lined Surgeonfish, Striped Surgeon, Striped Surgeonfish, Zebra Surgeonfish (Acanthurus lineatus) is primarily herbivorous and feeds on a variety of algae and plant matter found on the reef. Its diet includes: brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), krill, mysis, nori-algae, and zooplankton. Its grazing behavior plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the coral reef ecosystem.
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