The Twospot surgeonfish (Ctenochaetus binotatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The twospot surgeonfish is a surgeonfish of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from East Africa to the Tuamotu Islands and from southern Japan to Australia. It grows to about 22 cm and has a deep, brown body with a blue eye-ring and a conspicuous black spot at the rear base of the dorsal and anal fins. With its bristle-like teeth it scrapes a film of detritus and unicellular algae from the reef, in doing so also taking up toxin-forming dinoflagellates, so that its flesh may carry ciguatera. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp spine that can inflict cuts. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Twospot surgeonfish?
The Twospot surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Twospot surgeonfish live?
The Twospot surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Twospot surgeonfish get?
The Twospot surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Twospot surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Twospot surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care.
Is the Twospot surgeonfish edible?
The Twospot surgeonfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenochaetus
More from the family Acanthuridae
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