The Red Sea surgeonfish is a striking member of the surgeon family, recognisable by its electric-blue body marked with bold yellow and orange stripes. Found in coral reef environments, particularly in the Red Sea and adjacent regions, it grazes on algae and detritus along reef slopes and drop-offs. Like other surgeonfishes, it carries venomous spines on either side of its tail base—a defensive weapon that can inflict serious wounds if the fish feels threatened. Solitary or in small groups, it favours depths of 5–60 metres and is most active during daylight hours.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Teleostei
- Order
- Acanthuriformes
- Family
- Acanthuridae
- Genus
- Acanthurus
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.