Fin's Fish Guide
The White-freckled surgeonfish (Acanthurus maculiceps) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
Description
The White-freckled surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, dark-brown with white freckles on the head body with a small mouth for grazing algae. On each side of the tail base it carries a sharp, scalpel-like keel blade. As a grazer it scrapes algae from coral and rock. The keel blade can inflict a deep cut when the fish is handled or defends itself.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White-freckled surgeonfish?
The White-freckled surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the White-freckled surgeonfish live?
The White-freckled surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
How big does the White-freckled surgeonfish get?
The White-freckled surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the White-freckled surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The White-freckled surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The sharp keel blades near the tail can give a deep cut. Rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Suture if needed and seek medical care for a deep wound; update tetanus protection and watch for signs of infection.
Is the White-freckled surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the White-freckled 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 White-freckled surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-freckled surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.