Goldrim Surgeonfish

Family: Surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae)
Size: Up to 21 cm (8.3 in)
Depth: 1 – 67m (3 – 220ft)

Distribution: Widespread Indo-Pacific and Eastern Tropical Pacific (Mexico to Colombia, Galapagos, and Cocos Islands).

Identification: A striking, oval-shaped reef fish with high-contrast markings.

• Velvet & Gold: The body is a deep, velvety purplish-black. It is outlined by a brilliant yellow stripe running along the base of the dorsal (top) and anal (bottom) fins.
• The "White Cheek": Look for the distinct, bright white patch located just below the eye, along with a prominent white ring around the mouth.
• The Tail: The caudal fin (tail) is white with a thick yellow vertical band.

Behavior: Active daytime grazers essential for reef health.

• Algae Farmers: Often seen moving continuously over rocky and coral reefs, picking at benthic algae to keep the reef clean. They can be found solitary, in pairs, or occasionally in loose schools.
• The "Scalpel": Like all surgeonfish, they possess a sharp, retractable modified scale (spine) at the base of their tail used for defense against predators and territorial rivals.