Whitecheek surgeonfish

The whitecheek surgeonfish is a marine tang in the family Acanthuridae, widespread across coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific. It has a deep, oval body that is mostly dark blue-black, set off by a bright white patch below the eye, a yellow band along the dorsal fin base, and yellow accents on the tail. Like other surgeonfish, it carries a sharp, scalpel-like spine near the tail base used in defense. It grazes algae from rock and reef surfaces throughout the day. It requires a large marine aquarium with abundant live rock for grazing and plenty of open swimming room. Diet should emphasize marine algae and vegetable matter supplemented with meaty foods. It can be territorial toward other tangs, so tankmates must be chosen carefully. Good water quality and space make it a fish for intermediate to experienced keepers.