Japan Surgeonfish (Acanthurus japonicus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Acanthurus japonicus is a medium-sized surgeonfish with a predominantly brown to olive-gray body and distinctive vertical banding patterns. The fish features characteristic blue lines along the gill plates and around the mouth, with a sharp venomous spine (scalpel-like keel) on each side of the caudal peduncle typical of all tangs in the Acanthuridae family.
Diet and feeding
Feed high-quality herbivorous foods including dried nori, spirulina flakes, and specialized algae-based pellets. Supplement with fresh macro- and microalgae several times weekly. Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach, zucchini) may be offered.
Difficulty and care for the Japan Surgeonfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, secondary bacterial infections, nutritional deficiencies if herbivorous diet inadequate
Origin and habitat
Western Pacific Ocean, ranging from Indonesia and the Philippines northward to southern Japan. Inhabits coral reef environments and rocky areas in tropical waters.
Log Japan 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 Japan Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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