The Monrovia Doctorfish, Monrovia Surgeonfis (Acanthurus monroviae) is a vibrant and striking species of surgeonfish that thrives in the tropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This species is distinguished by its unique color patterns and its specialized scalpel-like spines, a hallmark feature of the surgeonfish family.
Description & Characteristics
The Acanthurus monroviae is a relatively large surgeonfish, reaching a maximum size of 45.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed laterally, adorned with a striking combination of colors. The dorsal fin is long and continuous, extending from the head to the tail. The anal fin is also elongated and positioned opposite the dorsal fin. The Acanthurus monroviae is easily recognizable by the sharp, scalpel-like spines located on each side of its caudal peduncle (the area connecting the tail to the body). These spines are a defense mechanism, allowing the fish to inflict a painful cut to any potential predator.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Acanthurus monroviae is a common inhabitant of coral reefs and rocky outcrops, typically found at depths ranging from 5.0 to 200.0 meters. It prefers areas with abundant algae growth, as this serves as a primary food source. This species is widely distributed throughout the tropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean, often seen in the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and along the coasts of West Africa. This distribution places the Monrovia Doctorfish, Monrovia Surgeonfis within a range of marine zones including the epipelagic and mesopelagic zones.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthurus monroviae belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Acanthuridae. This taxonomic placement reflects the evolutionary relationships of this species with other fish groups. The Teleostei class encompasses the vast majority of bony fishes, highlighting the Acanthurus monroviae‘s position within this diverse group. The Order: Acanthuriformes encompasses the surgeonfishes and their relatives, reflecting the shared evolutionary history of these species. Finally, the Family: Acanthuridae further pinpoints the species’ specific association with the surgeonfish family, characterized by their unique anatomical features, including the specialized spines.
Feeding
The Monrovia Doctorfish, Monrovia Surgeonfis (Acanthurus monroviae) is primarily herbivorous, feeding on a diet of algae, both live and detrital. It also consumes small invertebrates like brine shrimps, and may opportunistically consume flakes and frozen food (especially larger varieties) in a captive environment.
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