Fin's Fish Guide
The Cuvier's Surgeonfish (Acanthurus xanthopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The yellowfin surgeonfish is a large surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 70 cm and has a grey-blue to purplish body with yellow tints in the pectoral fins and a yellow mask before the eyes. It lives in various reef habitats, sand slopes and lagoons; juveniles in sheltered inshore areas. As a predominantly herbivorous fish it grazes algae and detritus from the bottom, sometimes supplemented with small zooplankton. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cuvier's Surgeonfish?
The Cuvier's Surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Yellow mask over the eyes and yellow pectoral fin tints; sharp, scalpel-like caudal spines.
Where does the Cuvier's Surgeonfish live?
The Cuvier's Surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; reef habitats, sandy slopes and lagoons.
How big does the Cuvier's Surgeonfish get?
The Cuvier's Surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Cuvier's Surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Cuvier's Surgeonfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. On each side of the tail base is a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for a deep or infected wound.
Is the Cuvier's Surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Cuvier's 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 Cuvier's Surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cuvier's Surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.