Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluelined surgeonfish (Acanthurus nubilus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 26 cm.
Oceania: Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Guam, Indonesia, New Caledonia, North. Marianas and others
Description
The bluelined surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 26 cm and has a grey-brown, disc-shaped body with fine, light-blue longitudinal lines and a yellowish tinge around the pectoral fin. As a reef-dweller it often hovers in groups above deeper outer-reef slopes and eats zooplankton and algae. A sharp, scalpel-like spine sits on each side of the tail base that can inflict a deep cut; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluelined surgeonfish?
The Bluelined surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Bluelined surgeonfish live?
The Bluelined surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Guam, Indonesia, New Caledonia, North. Marianas and others
How big does the Bluelined surgeonfish get?
The Bluelined surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Bluelined surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Bluelined surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Never grab a live surgeonfish by the tail; a sharp, scalpel-like spine sits on each side of the tail base. For a cut: rinse with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Deep wounds easily become infected: have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Bluelined surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Bluelined surgeonfish is commonly 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 Bluelined surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluelined surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.