The surgeonfish habitat, features and reproduction

The surgeonfish is one of the best known in the world. Thanks to the Disney movie "Finding Nemo" and its sequel, with Dory as the protagonist, a blue surgeon. However, beyond an on-screen character, it is a specimen with life on the reef.

Surgeonfish are known as several species grouped in the family Acanthuridae. They are distinguished by their striking and bright colors, so they are usually widely used in aquariums. In these lines we bring you everything related to them, their habitat, characteristics, reproduction and other important aspects, do not miss anything.

Habitat

These fish are marine and are distributed in the tropical and subtropical waters of the world (although absent in the Mediterranean Sea). They are coral reef dwellers, with the greatest diversity concentrated in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Specific niches vary by species. So, for example, we can find some who prefer coastal areas with waves, sandy or rocky bottoms, among others.

Features of the surgeonfish

Acanurids have a special appearance, a laterally flattened body and mouths of few dimensions. Usually these are small fish that do not exceed 40 centimeters in length. However, some specimens may be larger. They have striking colors, which makes them very beautiful, ideal for aquariums.

The distinctive aspects of this group are the thorns or sharp plates, with which they defend themselves from their enemies. In addition, they have fairly large dorsal and fins, occupying a large part of the length of the body. The caudal has a particular truncated or semi-lunar shape.

In some species, sexual dimorphism is present, that is, males and females are different. In particular, in terms of size or certain aspects of its morphology.

A very popular species is the blue surgeonfish (Paracanthurus hepatus), with a very conspicuous coloration, an intense blue with black stripes and yellow tail, as well as the edge of its pectoral fins.

Behavior

These fish are diurnal, so at night they seek shelter to protect themselves. its growth is accelerated for the first years of its development. They are also distinguished by their longevity, since most specimens live up to more than 30 years. During the breeding season, it is common to observe fights between males.

Something interesting about these fish is that they can form small or large groups to feed or reproduce (even with other species). Although there are taxa that do not follow these habits and are maintained individually.

Feeding

Most Navajo fish are herbivores, but there are also organisms that consume small animals. Their diet is wide, they can include plankton, algae and detritus. Teeth also exhibit this variety. Usually, the mouth has a row with sharp pieces. They can make migrations to feed, from superficial areas to others of greater depths.

A curious fact is that some of these beautiful swimmers eat, with algae, a large amount of sediment that promotes the digestive process. They achieve this because they have stomachs with thick walls that can withstand the substances consumed.

Thanks to its eating habits, the surgeon fish plays a very important role in the energy balance of coral reefs, transforming the energy of plants. In addition, they are involved in the transport and recycling of nutrients with their migrations.

How does the surgeon fish reproduce?

Reproduction of members of this family is of the sexual type, with egg production (oviparous) and external fertilization. There are different strategies used such as aggregations, harem formation, migrations and also spawning in feeding areas. Some species suffer from sequential hermaphroditism, that is, they can change sex during their lifetime.

The most common reproductive behavior is spawning in groups. Such laying can take place all year round with variable egg production. Some specimens show changes in coloration in spawning and fighting between males.

There is no parental care in this group. Hatching of eggs takes place within 2-3 days after spawning and fertilization. During their life cycle, they pass through a pelagic larval stage (which is kept in deep water). Usually, sexual maturity occurs between 1 and 2 years, and the length of the samples is variable.

Conservation status

Acanthuridae are divided into 6 genera, in which 83 species are included in total. Although most are not in danger of extinction, there are 1 specimen listed as vulnerable, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These are Acanthurus chronixis, chronixis or condemned surgeonfish, threatened by intensive collection and fishing.

A latent threat to these species is the destruction of coral reefs around the world, the product of multiple factors. Among them we have rising temperatures, extraction, ocean acidification, pollution and disease.

Surgeons captivate fish with their appearance, coloration, and behavior. As you may have noticed, they fulfill their role in the ecosystem, but their existence is threatened by intensive harvesting and the destruction of reefs in which humans have a great responsibility. However, it can also be part of the solution to create a better world for these new swimmers.

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