Doctorfish
Acanthurus chirurgus
Doctorfish (Acanthurus chirurgus) is a surgeonfish of warm western Atlantic reefs and seagrass edges. It grazes on algae and detritus and can slash with the sharp spine at the base of its tail.
Identification points
- Gray-brown body with thin pale blue to yellowish longitudinal lines
- Taller, disk-like surgeonfish body with a narrow caudal peduncle
- Sharp movable white spine on each side of the tail base
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, rocky ledges, patch reefs, and adjacent seagrass beds and lagoonal areas; commonly forages over algae-covered hard bottom in clear tropical to subtropical coastal waters.
Bait notes
Not a regular gamefish; if targeted, small pieces of shrimp, squid, clam, or algae-based baits on tiny hooks can take it. Small reef jigs or sabiki-style offerings are more relevant than standard sport lures.
Behavior
Mostly diurnal and social, feeding in loose groups while cropping benthic algae and fine detritus. When threatened it can flick the caudal spine, and larger fish often hold close to structure.
Caution
The tail spine can inflict a painful cut, so handle with a net or gloves and avoid the caudal peduncle. In some areas it may be subject to local reef-fish regulations; confirm harvest rules before keeping.
Fishing notes
Use light tackle and small hooks near reefs or grass beds, presenting baits close to bottom and structure. It is usually caught incidentally by snorkelers or by reef anglers; handle carefully because of the tail spine.