Acanthurus sandvicensis
424 sites
Acanthuridae
Imagine gliding through the turquoise waters of the Indo-Pacific, a vibrant flash of color catching your eye. It might just be the Hawaiian Convict Surgeonfish (Acanthurus sandvicensis)! While its size and preferred depths remain somewhat mysterious, this surgeonfish is a regular sight for divers and snorkellers exploring reefs across the Indian Ocean, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and even the Great Barrier Reef. With its distinctive markings, it's a fish you won't easily forget. These surgeonfish are active during the day, grazing on algae and contributing to the health of the coral reef ecosystem. Keep an eye out for them in schools, adding a dynamic element to your underwater adventure.
The Hawaiian Convict Surgeonfish is easily identifiable by its pale grey to whitish body adorned with six vertical black bars, resembling the stripes of a convict's uniform. A yellow patch often surrounds the base of the caudal spine (the 'scalpel' that gives surgeonfish their name). Juveniles may display slightly different coloration. The body shape is oval and compressed laterally, typical of surgeonfish, allowing for quick maneuvering through reef environments.
Blue Tang
31 sites
