Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluelined surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigroris) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll; clear lagoons and seaward reefs.
Description
The bluelined surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll in the central Pacific. The species has an oval, laterally compressed, brown body with fine, wavy blue lengthwise lines, to which the name refers. It inhabits clear lagoons and seaward reefs, often on bottoms with a mix of coral, pavement, rubble and sand. It grazes on filamentous algae and diatom mats on the substrate. On either side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can cause deep cuts; handle a caught specimen with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluelined surgeonfish?
The Bluelined surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Fine wavy blue longitudinal lines; sharp scalpel-like spine at the caudal base.
Where does the Bluelined surgeonfish live?
The Bluelined surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll; clear lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Bluelined surgeonfish get?
The Bluelined surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Bluelined surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluelined surgeonfish is harmless to humans. The sharp, scalpel-like spine(s) at the tail base can cause deep cuts. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for a deep cut or infection.
Is the Bluelined surgeonfish edible?
The Bluelined surgeonfish is rarely 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 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.