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Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish (Acanthurus tractus)

Find Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish across reef-livestock retailers on ReefDock. Compare sources, check known pricing where available, and review care information before you buy.

Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish
Photo: Andy Blackledge · CC BY 2.0
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Where to buy Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish

ReefDock searches the following reef retailers for this fish. Click through to see the live price.

  • Saltwaterfish

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    Search Saltwaterfish
  • Amazon

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    Search Amazon
  • Petco

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    Search Petco

About Caribean Ocean Surgeonfish

Acanthurus tractus, the five-band surgeonfish, ocean surgeon, or ocean surgeonfish, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Acanthuridae found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Key facts

Diet
herbivore
Origin
Acanthurus tractus, the five-band surgeonfish, ocean surgeon, or ocean surgeonfish, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Acanthuridae found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
Common Health Issues
The Ocean Surgeonfish is prone to common marine ailments such as ich fin rot and lateral line erosion. Regular monitoring of water quality and a varied nutrient-rich diet can help prevent these issues.
Diet Details
Known to eat marine algae nori and leafy greens. They are important herbivores on coral reefs helping to control algae growth.
Max Size
15
Care Requirements
• Minimum 180-gallon tank recommended for adults • pH 8.1-8.3, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temp 72-78°F • Moderate to strong water flow; excellent filtration • Ample grazing space on live rock; algae-based diet essential • Peaceful with fish but territorial with other surgeonfishes
Difficulty Level
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Family
Acanthuridae
Water Parameters
Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) pH: 8.0-8.4 Salinity: 1.021-1.025
Feeding Schedule
Provide 2-3 feedings daily with a mix of high-quality pellets flakes and frozen foods. Supplement with live foods as a treat to encourage natural foraging behavior.
Care Level
Moderate
Reef safety
Reef Safe

Research before you buy

ReefDock is the sister app to Reef Trak. Use Reef Trak to research and log fish, keep tank parameters organized, and maintain a complete livestock history. Log this fish on Reef Trak.

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