Yellowtail Surgeonfish (Prionurus punctatus)

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Prionurus punctatus

681 Litres (180 US G.)

53.3-58.4cm (21-23 ")

pH

8.1 - 8.4

18.3-25.6°C (65 -78 °F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Herbivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

15-20 years

Family

Acanthuridae



Additional names

Yellowtail Surgeon


Origin

From the Gulf Of California to El Salvador


Sexing

No sexual dimorphism; inspect the underside


Tank compatibility

Peaceful, but will be aggressive to similar species if space is limited. A specimen that feels threatened may attack your hand with the "saw" on their tail, so make sure not to spook them.


Diet

herbivorous, eats various macroalgae and microalgae, but may also be supplemented with meaty foods.


Feeding regime

Daily, at least 2 times.


Environment specifics

A grazer that may enjoy slightly cooler waters, as well as a large amount of rock for grazing.


Behaviour

Peaceful, and can be kept in groups housed in a suitably sized system. Can be observed "slapping" other fish with their peduncle spine to resolve territorial issues.


Identification

Covered in small black spots with three big spots on the caudal peduncle; similar to the Razor Surgeonfish, which is not as spotted. It also looks similar to the more commonly offered Mustard Tang, although it has a much longer snout than the Mustard Tang.