Acanthurus coeruleus reaches 39 cm. Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) West Atlantic tropical (Caribbean, Florida, Brazil) with oval body uniformly vivid blue to blue-purple with small darker wavy lines, distinctive vivid yellow caudal scalpel. Juveniles are uniformly lemon-yellow (spectacular transformation). Lives from 2 to 40 m on coral and rocky Caribbean reefs, in schools grazing algae. Herbivore. Classic Caribbean dive photo subject, one of the most iconic surgeonfish of West Atlantic.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the Blue tang surgeonfish?
Blue tang surgeonfish (Acanthurus coeruleus) reaches 20–39 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Blue tang surgeonfish?
Blue tang surgeonfish is found between 2–40 m deep.
Is the Blue tang surgeonfish dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Blue tang surgeonfish?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Blue tang surgeonfish?
Found in: Caribbean, Macaronesia, Eastern Pacific, Mediterranean.