Fin's Fish Guide
The Bleeker's surgeonfish (Acanthurus mata) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The elongate surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an elongate, blue-grey body with fine lengthwise lines and can change colour quickly. Adults live on steep slopes, often in turbid water near coral reefs, where they pluck zooplankton from the water column in schools. On each side of the tail base it carries a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can inflict deep cuts.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bleeker's surgeonfish?
The Bleeker's surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Plankton-eating surgeonfish of turbid reef slopes; the scalpel-like tail spine can cut deeply.
Where does the Bleeker's surgeonfish live?
The Bleeker's surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; steep slopes near coral reefs.
How big does the Bleeker's surgeonfish get?
The Bleeker's surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Bleeker's surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Bleeker's surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp, scalpel-like spine on the tail base can inflict deep cuts. Handle with care; clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for deep wounds or infection.
Is the Bleeker's surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Bleeker's surgeonfish is commonly 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 Bleeker's surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bleeker's surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.