Acanthurus polyzona

Datasheet

General Description

The Black-barred surgeonfish, belonging to the Acanthurus genus, exhibits an intriguing characteristic of mimicking different Angelfish species during its juvenile stage, serving as a defense mechanism against predators. This mimicry makes it challenging to differentiate them from adult fish based on visual inspection.

Aquarium Suitability

With limited information available, it is advisable to exercise caution when considering the Black-barred surgeonfish for aquariums due to its potential demands for larger tank sizes, specific surroundings, and water quality maintenance compared to other fish species like Zebrasoma.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Although details are scarce regarding the specific care requirements and hardiness of Acanthurus polyzona, the species is noted to need ample swimming space and suitable hiding spots within the aquarium. Besides, maintaining a well-established tank with abundant algae for grazing is deemed crucial for their well-being.

Reef Suitability

The compatibility of the Black-barred surgeonfish with reef environments remains undisclosed, necessitating further exploration into its interactions with coral and other invertebrates commonly found in reef setups.

Aquarium Setup

Creating an ideal habitat for the Black-barred surgeonfish involves providing hiding places among live rocks, ensuring sufficient space for swimming activities, and maintaining a well-run aquarium with an algae-rich environment conducive to their grazing habits. The species may benefit from supplementary feeding with algae-rich foods such as Spirulina if natural algae levels are insufficient.

Behaviour

In an aquarium setting, the Black-barred surgeonfish is expected to spend much of its time swimming around the tank while nibbling on algae growth on rocks and substrates. Generally, these fish are not aggressive towards other tank mates but may establish a hierarchy when multiple individuals are present.

Feeding and Diet

The dietary preferences of the Black-barred surgeonfish encompass small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia alongside a diet rich in macroalgae like seaweed and microalgae such as spirulina.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Limited information is available regarding dimorphic features or captive reproduction of Acanthurus polyzona. Further studies may provide insights into potential visual distinctions between male and female specimens as well as successful breeding practices in captivity.

Habitat and Distribution

The Black-barred surgeonfish, Acanthurus polyzona, is primarily found in the Western Indian Ocean, inhabiting regions around Mauritius, Réunion, Madagascar, and the Comoro Islands. This distribution pattern provides valuable insight into the natural habitats preferred by this species.