Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowtail surgeonfish (Prionurus punctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The yellowtail surgeonfish is a surgeonfish from the eastern Pacific, ranging from the Gulf of California to El Salvador and the Revillagigedo Islands. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a greyish body covered with dark spots and a conspicuous yellow tail. On each side of the tail base are bony, keel-like plates that can inflict cuts. It lives in schools on shallow rocky reefs and grazes on algae. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowtail surgeonfish?
The Yellowtail surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Bony keeled plates on the caudal peduncle that can cause cuts; yellow tail
Where does the Yellowtail surgeonfish live?
The Yellowtail surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Yellowtail surgeonfish get?
The Yellowtail surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Yellowtail surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowtail surgeonfish is harmless to humans. The bony plates on the tail base are razor-sharp and can cause deep cuts. Handle the fish with care; clean and disinfect any wound and seek medical help for a deep cut.
Is the Yellowtail surgeonfish edible?
The Yellowtail surgeonfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prionurus
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowtail surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowtail surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.