Surgeonfish

About Surgeonfish

Colorful herbivore with a scalpel-sharp spine near the tail

Quick Facts

• Habitat: Coral reefs and rocky areas throughout the tropics
• Diet: Algae, seaweed, and small planktonic organisms
• Best season: Year-round

Fun Facts

The blue tang is the real-life Dory from Finding Nemo,They have a razor-sharp retractable blade near their tail for defense,Surgeonfish are vital reef cleaners—they prevent algae from smothering corals

Diving Tips

Surgeonfish are everywhere on healthy reefs. Watch for the distinctive flash of their caudal spine when agitated.