Fin's Fish Guide
The Ringtail surgeonfish (Acanthurus blochii) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 45 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Cook Is. and others
Description
The ringtail surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a deep, grey-blue body with a yellow spot behind the eye and a pale ring around the tail base. On each side of the tail base it carries a sharp, scalpel-like blade. As a reef-dweller it grazes algae and growth from rocky and coral bottoms in groups. The tail scalpel can cause deep cuts when handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ringtail surgeonfish?
The Ringtail surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly blue. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Ringtail surgeonfish live?
The Ringtail surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Cook Is. and others
How big does the Ringtail surgeonfish get?
The Ringtail surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Ringtail surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Ringtail surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not grab the fish by the tail: surgeonfishes carry sharp, scalpel-like bony plates on the tail base that can cause deep cuts. For a cut: clean, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Ringtail surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Ringtail surgeonfish is commonly 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 Ringtail surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ringtail surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.