Fin's Fish Guide
The Sohal surgeonfish (Acanthurus sohal) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Asia: Bahrain, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Djibouti, Iran, Iraq, Israel and others
Description
The sohal surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) endemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, blue-grey body with fine dark longitudinal lines and an orange blotch on the chest. On each side of the tail base it carries a large, sharp, orange scalpel. As a fiercely territorial reef-dweller it defends its algal territory. The tail scalpel can cause deep cuts; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sohal surgeonfish?
The Sohal surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Sohal surgeonfish live?
The Sohal surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Bahrain, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Djibouti, Iran, Iraq, Israel and others
How big does the Sohal surgeonfish get?
The Sohal surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Sohal surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Sohal 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 Sohal surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Sohal 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 Sohal surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sohal surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.