The Orange-socket Surgeonfish, Ring-tail Surgeon (Acanthurus auranticavus) is a captivating fish found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. Known for its distinctive orange eye sockets and bright yellow tail, this surgeonfish is a vibrant addition to coral reefs and rocky shorelines.
Description & Characteristics
The Orange-socket Surgeonfish, Ring-tail Surgeon (Acanthurus auranticavus) can grow to a maximum size of 45.0 cm. Its body is compressed laterally, giving it a streamlined shape for navigating through the water. This surgeonfish is characterized by its distinctive orange eye sockets, which are set against a background of a silvery-grey to bluish-grey body. The tail is a striking yellow, with the dorsal and anal fins bearing black edges. This combination of colors and features makes Acanthurus auranticavus a visually striking fish.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Orange-socket Surgeonfish, Ring-tail Surgeon (Acanthurus auranticavus) thrives in shallow reef areas and rocky shorelines, typically inhabiting depths between 1.0 – 20.0 meters. This fish is a common sight in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. Acanthurus auranticavus can be found in various marine zones, from coral reefs to coastal lagoons.
Taxonomy
The Orange-socket Surgeonfish, Ring-tail Surgeon (Acanthurus auranticavus) belongs to the family Acanthuridae, which includes other surgeonfish species. This family falls under the Order Acanthuriformes, which includes other bony fishes with distinctive features like sharp spines. Acanthurus auranticavus, like all other members of this group, belongs to the Class Teleostei, which encompasses most of the ray-finned fishes.
Feeding
The Orange-socket Surgeonfish, Ring-tail Surgeon (Acanthurus auranticavus) is primarily an herbivore. Its diet consists of a variety of algae, including nori-algae, which it scrapes off rocks and coral using its specialized teeth. Acanthurus auranticavus may also supplement its diet with small invertebrates like zooplankton, brine shrimps, and krill. While typically herbivorous, this fish is known to consume a range of food in captivity, including dandelion, flakes, frozen foods, and even shrimps.
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