Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish (Acanthurus tractus )

Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameAcanthurus tractus
FamilyAcanthuridae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietherbivore
Adult size15 in
Minimum tank size180 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) pH: 8.0-8.4 Salinity: 1.021-1.025
Feeding scheduleProvide 2-3 feedings daily with a mix of high-quality pellets flakes and frozen foods. Supplement with live foods as a treat to encourage natural foraging behavior.

Appearance

Acanthurus tractus, the five-band surgeonfish, ocean surgeon, or ocean surgeonfish, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Acanthuridae found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Diet and feeding

Known to eat marine algae nori and leafy greens. They are important herbivores on coral reefs helping to control algae growth.

Difficulty and care for the Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

The Ocean Surgeonfish is prone to common marine ailments such as ich fin rot and lateral line erosion. Regular monitoring of water quality and a varied nutrient-rich diet can help prevent these issues.

Origin and habitat

Acanthurus tractus, the five-band surgeonfish, ocean surgeon, or ocean surgeonfish, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Acanthuridae found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Log Caribean Ocean 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 Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.