Acanthurus Nigricauda - Epaulette Surgeonfish

$85.00

The Epaulette Surgeonfish, often recognized by the distinct black horizontal "epaulette" marking behind its eye, is a sophisticated choice for the large-scale marine aquarium. Featuring a sleek, dark gray-to-chocolate body with a striking white band at the base of the tail, this species exudes a subtle elegance. In the "Answering Machine" era of saltwater husbandry, the Epaulette Surgeonfish is valued for its constant movement and its ability to keep a large system’s rockwork clean and free of nuisance algae.

This is a fast, powerful swimmer that requires a massive amount of open water. While it may appear understated as a juvenile, its colors deepen and its profile becomes more commanding as it matures. It is generally peaceful toward non-Tang tank mates but can be assertive about its grazing territory, making it best suited for a community of other large, active fish.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Moderate

  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive

  • Minimum Tank Size: 180 Gallons

  • Diet: Herbivore

  • Reef Compatible: Yes

  • Max Size: 15 Inches

  • Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025

Husbandry Notes The Epaulette Surgeonfish is a dedicated herbivore that requires a high-fiber diet. To maintain its health and immune system, provide consistent access to dried seaweed (Nori) and supplement with high-quality spirulina-based pellets or flakes. Because of its large adult size and high metabolism, a 6-foot tank is the absolute minimum for long-term success. High water oxygenation and strong current are essential to mimic its natural reef habitat. Ensure plenty of hiding spots within the rockwork for the fish to retreat to at night.

Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.

The Epaulette Surgeonfish, often recognized by the distinct black horizontal "epaulette" marking behind its eye, is a sophisticated choice for the large-scale marine aquarium. Featuring a sleek, dark gray-to-chocolate body with a striking white band at the base of the tail, this species exudes a subtle elegance. In the "Answering Machine" era of saltwater husbandry, the Epaulette Surgeonfish is valued for its constant movement and its ability to keep a large system’s rockwork clean and free of nuisance algae.

This is a fast, powerful swimmer that requires a massive amount of open water. While it may appear understated as a juvenile, its colors deepen and its profile becomes more commanding as it matures. It is generally peaceful toward non-Tang tank mates but can be assertive about its grazing territory, making it best suited for a community of other large, active fish.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Moderate

  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive

  • Minimum Tank Size: 180 Gallons

  • Diet: Herbivore

  • Reef Compatible: Yes

  • Max Size: 15 Inches

  • Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025

Husbandry Notes The Epaulette Surgeonfish is a dedicated herbivore that requires a high-fiber diet. To maintain its health and immune system, provide consistent access to dried seaweed (Nori) and supplement with high-quality spirulina-based pellets or flakes. Because of its large adult size and high metabolism, a 6-foot tank is the absolute minimum for long-term success. High water oxygenation and strong current are essential to mimic its natural reef habitat. Ensure plenty of hiding spots within the rockwork for the fish to retreat to at night.

Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.