Yellowfin Surgeonfish
Acanthurus xanthopterus
- Group: Surgeonfish
- Typical depth: 1–100 m
- Max size: 70 cm
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: LC
This large surgeonfish gathers in schools over sand slopes and lagoons, grazing diatoms and the film of detritus that coats the bottom from shallow water down to a hundred metres. A scalpel sharp spine sits on each side of the tail base and can open a deep cut if the fish is grabbed.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Acanthuriformes › Acanthuridae › Acanthurus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 219634.
FAQ
- How deep does the Yellowfin Surgeonfish live?
- The Yellowfin Surgeonfish (Acanthurus xanthopterus) is typically found at 1–100 m.
- Is the Yellowfin Surgeonfish dangerous to divers?
- The Yellowfin Surgeonfish can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Yellowfin Surgeonfish get?
- The Yellowfin Surgeonfish grows to about 70 cm.