Fin's Fish Guide
The Black surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigricans) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The whitecheek surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a dark, blue-black body with a white patch below the eye and yellow margins along the dorsal and anal fins. On either side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine. Adults inhabit hard substrates of clear lagoon and seaward reefs, from the shallow surge zone to at least 67 m, where they graze filamentous algae. The sharp tail spine can give a deep cut if handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black surgeonfish?
The Black surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. White cheek blotch and a scalpel-shaped tail spine; grazes filamentous algae from the reef.
Where does the Black surgeonfish live?
The Black surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; hard substrates of lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Black surgeonfish get?
The Black surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Black surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black surgeonfish is harmless to humans. The sharp, scalpel-like spine on either side of the tail base can give a deep cut if handled. Clean the wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Black surgeonfish edible?
The Black surgeonfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acanthurus
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Black surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.