Elongate Surgeonfish.

Acanthurus mata is a tropical fish with the common name Elongate Surgeonfish.

Appearance

The elongate surgeonfish is light blue with numerous brown stripes running down the length of its body, although over time it is able to change colour to become blue overall. It has a band of yellowish green across its face and also on its upper lip. Males grow to be up to 50 cm long.

Habitat and Distribution

Can often be found inhabiting steep slopes around coral reefs. It is Indo-Pacific, and can be found as far north as Southern Japan and south to the Great Barrier Reef. Some live as far west as South Africa and as far east as the Tuamotu Islands.

Economic Value

The elongate surgeonfish can be eaten fresh, and although it is venomous the flesh is seldom dangerous for consumption. It is also used as an aquarium fish, although its size means that it is more difficult to manage than most other tangs and surgeonfish.