Latin name

Acanthurus albipectoralis

Other name

White-fin surgeon

Identification

Whitefin surgeonfish have 22 vertebrae. The smallest depth of the caudal trunk is 3.1-3.3 times the length of the head. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 8 - 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 22 - 33; Anal spines: 2 - 3; Anal soft rays: 18 - 31.

Fish colouring

The body coloration varies from light bluish gray to dark brown, without blue lines. The outer part of the pectoral fins is white, the edge is curved so that the pale area is widest in the middle part of the fin. 

Distribution

Widespread in the tropical waters of the western and central Pacific. Occurs in Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis and Futuna.

Habitat

It is a marine benthopelagic species. It inhabits the slopes of outer reefs facing the sea. The depth range is from 5 to 20 meters. 

Size

The maximum length of a whitefin surgeonfish is 33 centimeters.  

Behavior

Individuals of this species move individually, but more commonly in small groups. 

Food and feeding habits

This species feeds primarily on small planktonic invertebrates.

Reproduction

During mating, females release eggs into the water and males release sperm. The eggs are fertilized and become part of the plankton that drift on ocean currents. Parental care then ceases.

Fishing

Have a minor commercial interest in the fishery.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.