Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Alepocephaliformes
- Family
- Acanthuridae
- Genus
- Acanthurus
- Species
- dussumieri
Habitat
This species primarily inhabits coral reefs, lagoons, and seaward reefs in tropical and subtropical waters. It prefers depths of 1 to 30 meters and is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Hawaii, Australia, and the Indian Ocean.
Diet
The Eyestripe surgeonfish mainly feeds on benthic algae, seaweed, and occasionally small invertebrates by grazing on reef surfaces. It is a diurnal feeder, actively foraging during the day to maximize food intake while avoiding nocturnal predators.
Behavior
These fish often form schools in open water but can become territorial around feeding sites on reefs. They are diurnal, active during the day for feeding and resting in crevices at night. Eyestripe surgeonfish use their caudal spines aggressively when threatened.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.