Chocolate Surgeonfish (Acanthurus chocolate)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Chocolate Surgeonfish is a dark brown to nearly black tang with a distinctive white or pale stripe running along the dorsal fin edge. It has the characteristic compressed body shape and venomous spine (scalpel) at the base of the tail typical of acanthurid tangs. The mouth is small and positioned low on the head, adapted for grazing.
Diet and feeding
Feed primarily dried seaweed, nori, and spirulina-based preparations 2-3 times daily. Supplement with high-quality herbivorous pellets formulated for tangs. Live rock with natural algae growth is beneficial for grazing behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Chocolate Surgeonfish
The Chocolate Surgeonfish requires stable water conditions and adequate space for grazing. It is hardier than some tangs but demands consistent quality care and compatibility management with tankmates.
Common health issues
Marine velvet, ich, lateral line erosion (HLLE), bacterial infections
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from East Africa through Indonesia and the Philippines to Samoa, with populations in the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding coral reef systems.
Log Chocolate 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 Chocolate Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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