Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitefin surgeonfish (Acanthurus albipectoralis) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The whitefin surgeonfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the southwest Pacific. The species grows to about 33 cm and has a blue-black, disc-shaped body with conspicuously white edges on the pectoral fins. As a reef-dweller it hovers in groups above steep outer-reef slopes and eats mainly zooplankton from the current, supplemented with algae. A sharp, scalpel-like spine sits on each side of the tail base that can inflict a deep cut; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whitefin surgeonfish?
The Whitefin 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 Whitefin surgeonfish live?
The Whitefin surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa
How big does the Whitefin surgeonfish get?
The Whitefin surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Whitefin surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Whitefin surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Never grab a live surgeonfish by the tail; a sharp, scalpel-like spine sits on each side of the tail base. For a cut: rinse with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Deep wounds easily become infected: have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Whitefin surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitefin surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Whitefin surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitefin surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.