Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue surgeonfish (Acanthurus leucosternon) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 54 cm.
Description
The powderblue surgeonfish is a beautifully coloured surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indian Ocean. The species has a powder-blue body, a black head with a white throat and a yellow dorsal fin, and reaches a few decimetres. It inhabits shallow, clear coral reefs along coasts and islands, especially reef flats and upper seaward slopes, where it occurs singly or in large feeding schools. It feeds on benthic algae. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can cause cuts when handled. The species is prized in the marine aquarium trade but difficult to keep.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue surgeonfish?
The Blue surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Powder-blue body with a black head and a yellow dorsal fin; sharp scalpel spine at the caudal peduncle.
Where does the Blue surgeonfish live?
The Blue surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indian Ocean, on shallow coral reefs along coasts and islands.
How big does the Blue surgeonfish get?
The Blue surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 54 cm. On average the species is around 19 cm.
Is the Blue surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Blue surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The sharp, scalpel-like spine(s) on each side of the tail base can cause deep cuts when handled. Do not grasp the fish by the tail and handle it carefully; clean and disinfect a wound and seek medical help for a deep cut.
Is the Blue surgeonfish edible?
The Blue 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 Blue surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.