White-Spine Surgeon Tang

White-Spine Surgeon Tang (Acanthurus leucocheilus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe as it poses no threat to corals or most invertebrates, focusing primarily on algae grazing. This distinctive species displays a blue-gray to olive body with prominent white spines or markings along the caudal peduncle that give it its common name, plus pale lips and the characteristic sharp spine (scalpel) at the base of the tail. The white spine markings and pale facial features create a unique appearance that makes it easily distinguishable from other Acanthurus species. It can reach about 14 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 125 gallons or more due to their substantial size and active swimming nature, with plenty of live rock for grazing, strong water flow, excellent water quality, and consideration for their territorial behavior toward other tangs, especially those with similar body shapes or spine markings. Its diet should include a mix of marine algae—nori sheets, spirulina, dried seaweed, algae pellets—as well as high-quality herbivore foods and occasional meaty supplements like mysis shrimp, as this primarily herbivorous species requires constant access to plant matter and benefits from varied nutrition to maintain optimal health and enhance the contrast of their distinctive white spine markings and pale facial coloration.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.