Black-Barred Surgeonfish (Acanthurus polyzona)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Black-Barred Surgeonfish has a compressed, disc-shaped body with distinctive black vertical bars on a white or yellowish background. The body is laterally flattened with a continuous dorsal fin and a characteristic scalpel-like spine (venomous) on the caudal peduncle, typical of the surgeonfish family. Adults typically display 6–8 prominent dark bars.
Diet and feeding
Feed high-quality dried seaweed (nori) and macroalgae multiple times daily, supplemented with herbivorous flake foods and occasional blanched vegetables. Ensure abundant algae growth in the tank or provide regular vegetal matter, as they naturally graze on algae in reef environments.
Difficulty and care for the Black-Barred Surgeonfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial septicemia, Parasitic infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa and the Red Sea through Indonesia and the Philippines to Hawaii and French Polynesia. Found in coral reef environments at depths from 5 to 100 meters.
Log Black-Barred Surgeonfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Black-Barred Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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