Orange-Band Surgeonfish (Acanthurus olivaceus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Acanthurus olivaceus is a medium-sized tang with an olivaceous-brown body and distinctive bright orange vertical bands on the head and anterior body. The fish has the characteristic compressed, disc-like body shape of surgeonfishes, with a yellow caudal fin and a venomous spine on the base of the tail.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, feed high-quality herbivorous foods including marine macroalgae, nori sheets, and quality pellets formulated for herbivorous tangs. Supplement with occasional vegetable matter and ensure multiple feeding opportunities daily to support grazing behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Orange-Band Surgeonfish
Moderately challenging for hobbyists. Requires a minimum 75 gallon tank, stable water conditions, and a herbivore-focused diet. Can be aggressive toward other tangs and similar fish, particularly conspecifics.
Common health issues
Ich, lateral line disease, parasites, fin rot
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific, ranging from East Africa and the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to Hawaii and the central Pacific. Found in coral reef environments throughout this distribution.
Log Orange-Band 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 Orange-Band Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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