Bluelined Surgeonfish (Acanthurus nubilus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Bluelined Surgeonfish is a compact, laterally flattened surgeonfish with a dark gray to blue-gray body marked by distinctive bright blue horizontal lines running along its head and gill covers. The fish has the characteristic surgeonfish body shape with a small mouth and venomous spines at the base of the tail. Adults typically reach 8–9 inches.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, offer high-quality marine herbivore pellets, nori sheets, and blanched spinach daily. Supplement with spirulina-based foods and occasional frozen green foods to maintain health and coloration.
Difficulty and care for the Bluelined Surgeonfish
The Bluelined Surgeonfish is moderately difficult, requiring stable water conditions, adequate space to forage, and a diet rich in marine vegetation. It is less aggressive than many tangs but demands meticulous attention to water quality.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Hole-in-the-head disease, Velvet disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Hawaiian Islands, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Red Sea and eastward to Hawaii.
Log Bluelined 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 Bluelined Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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