Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspot surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigrofuscus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The brown surgeonfish is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 21 cm and has an oval, brown to purple-brown body with fine orange dots on the head and a black spot at the base of the dorsal and anal fins. It lives on hard substrates of shallow lagoon and seaward reefs and grazes algae from the rocks in groups by day. As a herbivore it helps keep algal growth on the reef in check. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspot surgeonfish?
The Blackspot surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Algae grazer of the reef with fine orange spots on the head; sharp, scalpel-like tail spines.
Where does the Blackspot surgeonfish live?
The Blackspot surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; hard substrates of shallow lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Blackspot surgeonfish get?
The Blackspot surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Blackspot surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Blackspot surgeonfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. On each side of the tail base is a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for a deep or infected wound.
Is the Blackspot surgeonfish edible?
The Blackspot surgeonfish is rarely eaten.
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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 Blackspot surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspot surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.