Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue tang surgeonfish (Acanthurus coeruleus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 39 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow water.
Description
The blue tang is an oval, laterally compressed surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae reaching about 39 cm. Adults are deep blue with fine, wavy lengthwise lines, while juveniles are bright yellow and change colour gradually. Characteristic of the family is the sharp, scalpel-like bony blade on each side of the tail base - hence the name surgeonfish - which can be flicked out in defence and cause deep cuts. The species lives on coral and rock reefs of shallow water in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. It grazes algae off the rocks with its small mouth, often in loose groups, and so helps keep the reef free of smothering algae.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue tang surgeonfish?
The Blue tang surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Deep blue surgeonfish with fine longitudinal lines and a sharp, scalpel-like bony blade on either side of the caudal peduncle; juveniles are bright yellow. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Blue tang surgeonfish live?
The Blue tang surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow water.
How big does the Blue tang surgeonfish get?
The Blue tang surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 39 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Blue tang surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Blue tang surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. A sharp, scalpel-like blade on each side of the tail base can cause deep cuts; handle a caught fish carefully and clean any cut.
Is the Blue tang surgeonfish edible?
The Blue tang surgeonfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blue tang surgeonfish and live in the same waters.
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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 tang surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue tang surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.