Surgeonfish, also known as thongs, are one of the most attractive and fascinating marine species that you can find in saltwater aquariums. Their name is due to the knife-shaped protuberances they have at the base of their tail, which they use as a defense mechanism and which, if not handled carefully, can cause injuries to other fish and even humans.
Originating from the tropical regions of the Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea, surgeonfish can reach a length of up to 25 centimeters, making them vibrant protagonists of any aquarium. But it is not only their appearance that makes them special, but also their specific care and feeding needs making them a challenging and rewarding species for aquarium enthusiasts.
Types of Surgeonfish
There are several species de peces surgeons, each with unique characteristics that make them stand out. Among the most popular are:
- Powder Blue Surgeonfish: This specimen stands out for its spectacular pastel blue color, accompanied by a yellow dorsal fin that makes it one of the most visually striking.
- Blue Surgeonfish: With a deep blue color and black spots on its body, this species is hardier than the powder blue fish, making it ideal for less experienced aquarists.
- Clown Surgeonfish: Characterized by its vivid color pattern, it is an excellent choice to add personality to any aquarium.
Each of these species has specific care needs, but they all share a common characteristic: their demands regarding water quality and space in the aquarium.
Essential Care for Surgeonfish
Keeping a surgeonfish in an aquarium is not a simple task. These fish require a suitable environment and constant maintenance to ensure their well-being. Below we detail the key aspects to consider:
Aquarium Size
Surgeonfish need spacious aquariums due to their size and active nature. Ideally, a tank of at least 200 litres is recommended for a single specimen, although for larger species such as the Blue Surgeonfish, a tank of 500 litres or more is recommended. This will allow the fish to swim freely and reduce their stress.
Water Parameters
Water quality is crucial for the health of surgeonfish. The main parameters to monitor are:
- Temperature: Between 24°C and 27°C.
- pH: Keep it between 8.1 and 8.4.
- Salinity: A level of 1.023 to 1.025 is adequate.
It is recommended to perform Partial water changes regularly and use efficient filtration systems to maintain water purity.
Meals
The diet of surgeonfish is mainly herbivorous, although they also contain a small proportion of animal protein. In the wild, they feed on algae present on rocks and corals, making them excellent aquarium cleaners.
In captivity, you can offer them:
- Nori seaweed and spirulina.
- Fresh vegetables such as spinach and lettuce.
- Nutrient-enriched granules, flakes and pellets.
- Small live crustaceans such as mysis and shrimp.
It is recommended to feed them at least three times a day in small amounts to avoid digestive problems and maintain water quality.
Behavior and Compatibility
Surgeonfish are generally calm and peaceful, although they can be territorial with their own kind if space is not sufficient. This is especially true in the case of de peces males, which may show aggression towards other conspecifics.
A good tip is to mix them with species of similar size and peaceful characterIt is also important to provide them with hiding places and structures such as live rocks and corals in the aquarium, which will allow them to establish their territory and reduce stress.
Common Problems and Diseases
Despite their general hardiness, surgeonfish are prone to certain diseases, such as white spot disease, caused by parasites due to sudden changes in water parameters or stress.
To prevent health problems:
- Maintain stable water parameters.
- Provides a balanced diet rich in vitamins.
- Avoid overpopulation in the aquarium.
If symptoms of disease are detected, it is important to isolate the affected fish and apply specific treatments as soon as possible.
Including surgeonfish in a marine aquarium can be a unique challenge, but with proper care and attention, these fish will not only survive, but thrive, providing an unparalleled visual spectacle with their vibrant colors and unique personality.