A marine tropical fish species belonging to the surgeonfish family, characterized by its distinctive brown coloration and scalpel-like lateral spines used for defense and territorial interactions.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coral reefs and rocky coastal marine environments in the Indo-Pacific region, typically found at depths between 1-30 meters, preferring areas with abundant algal growth and complex reef structures
Ecological Role
Critical herbivorous marine species that contributes to coral reef ecosystem balance by controlling algal growth and serving as prey for larger predatory fish
Morphology
SKIN COATPredominantly brown to grayish-brown coloration with potential color variations based on age and environmental conditions
LIMBS WINGSPowerful caudal fin enabling rapid maneuverability, pectoral fins used for precise reef navigation
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes with excellent peripheral vision, small terminal mouth adapted for grazing algae
BODY STRUCTURECompressed, oval-shaped body with maximum length around 35 cm, featuring a robust lateral spine near tail base for defense
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: NPS photo - Bryan Harry
