Whitespotted Surgeonfish (Acanthurus guttatus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Whitespotted Surgeonfish is a dark gray to brown-bodied surgeonfish (tang) featuring distinctive white spots or streaks scattered across its head and body. It has a laterally compressed body shape characteristic of Acanthuridae, with a prominent retractable venomous spine on each side of the caudal peduncle.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied herbivorous diet including high-quality dried seaweed (nori), spirulina-based flakes, and frozen herbivore preparations. Supplement with occasional small amounts of meaty foods like mysis shrimp.
Difficulty and care for the Whitespotted Surgeonfish
The Whitespotted Surgeonfish is moderately difficult, requiring a spacious tank, stable water conditions, and a consistent herbivorous diet. It is generally hardier than some tangs but can be aggressive toward other surgeonfishes and similar-shaped fish.
Common health issues
Ich (marine ich), fin rot, velvet disease, parasitic infections if stressed
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa through the Indian Ocean to the central Pacific, including Indonesia, Philippines, and Micronesia.
Log Whitespotted 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 Whitespotted Surgeonfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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