Striped Surgeon

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Acanthurus lineatus
• Common Name: Striped Surgeon / Lined Surgeonfish / Clown Surgeonfish
• Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–12 years in captivity (can live longer in the wild)
• Habitat:
  • Found in shallow coral reefs, lagoons, and reef slopes
  • Native to the Indo-Pacific region

  • Frequently seen in high-energy reef areas with strong currents

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (475 liters) or more
  They are fast swimmers and require plenty of space
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
• Temperament:
  • Aggressive, especially toward other tangs or similar-shaped species
  • Best kept alone or introduced last in a peaceful tank

  • Territorial but can be peaceful with unrelated species

Diet & Nutrition

• Herbivorous with a strong preference for marine algae
• Feed:
  • Nori (dried seaweed) daily
  • Spirulina flakes/pellets
  • Fresh veggies like zucchini or lettuce (blanched)
  • Occasional protein sources (mysis or brine shrimp) to supplement

• Grazes constantly in the wild; multiple daily feedings are ideal

Breeding & Spawning

• Rarely bred in captivity
• In the wild:
  • Group spawning events
  • Release of gametes into open water

  • No parental care

Appearance

• Striking horizontal blue and yellow stripes across the body
• Pale white or grayish face
• Fin edges often outlined in blue or black

• Oval body with a pronounced caudal peduncle spine

Distinctive Features

• Known for its bold striping and high activity level
• Has a razor-sharp scalpel-like spine near the tail, used for defense and dominance
• Sensitive to water quality; prone to marine ich and HLLE (head and lateral line erosion) if stressed

• Requires strong water movement and plenty of live rock for grazing