Zebrasoma flavescens (Yellow surgeon)

This fish is an excellent swimmer, which traverses the entire length of the aquarium by scrapping the algae that grows on the substrate. Intraspecific relations, as well as those maintained with other Zebrasoma are rather aggressive. Interspecific relations are much better. The attacks with the caudal scalpels are extremely rare. The Caudal pedicle has, on each side, a sharp and mobile thorn, very useful for its defense. This sharp blade, directed forward, retracts in a furrow. The coloring varies according to the place of the harvest. In general it is sustained yellow, uniformly distributed over the body, including fins. The muzzle is tapered and the profile of the head highly curved.

Zebrasoma Flavescens fish is a seawater fish belonging to the Acanthuridae family. It is a reef fish that generally meets in the warm and shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. He is known by the common name of yellow chirurgical fish due to his caudal scalpel fin, which he uses to defend himself in the event of danger.

The Z. Flavescens has an elongated shape and compressed laterally, with a pointed muzzle and a mouth fitted with sharp teeth. Its color is generally bright yellow, with black and white strips which give it the appearance of a zebra, hence its name. Its dorsal fin is long and sharp, while its caudal fin is in the shape of a scalpel.

In general, the Z. Flavescens measures approximately 20 centimeters in length, although some individuals can reach up to 30 centimeters. It is generally peaceful and can live in harmony with other fish in an aquarium, although it can be aggressive towards other chirurgers.

The Z. Flavescens feeds mainly on algae, but it can also eat crustaceans and molluscs. It is considered a herbivorous fish. In captivity, it can be nourished with commercial foods for herbivorous fish, as well as lettuce leaves and cucumbers.

The Z. Flavescens is often used in seawater aquariums to help maintain algae growth by controlling their proliferation. It is a bold and easy to maintain aquarium fish, although its scalpel can cause injuries to other fish and humans. Because of its popularity as a company animal, it is often captured in nature to be sold in aquarophilia stores.

No differences.

No, not in aquarium.