Elongate Surgeonfish
(Acanthurus mata)

Description

The Elongate Surgeonfish, *Acanthurus mata*, is also known by several common names, including Mata Tang, Yellowmask Surgeonfish, Bleeker’s Surgeonfish, and Striped Surgeonfish. It is a large, active species popular in marine aquariums for its striking appearance and peaceful, yet sometimes aggressive, temperament towards similar species.

**Appearance and Behavior**:
The Elongate Surgeonfish has an elongated, oval, laterally compressed body. Its coloration can range from brown to a striking grey-blue, with fine horizontal bluish lines across its body. A distinctive yellow stripe runs across the eye, splitting into two lines anterior to the eye, and the upper lip can also be yellow. When excited, this fish can dramatically change its color from dark brown to pale blue. Like other surgeonfish, it possesses a retractable, razor-sharp scalpel-like spine on each side of its caudal peduncle, used for defense and territorial disputes. In the wild, adults often form large schools and feed on plankton in mid-water, typically above steep reef slopes. In an aquarium, they are active swimmers and will graze on algae from live rock.

**Care Requirements**:
This species is considered to have an intermediate to advanced care level due to its size and specific requirements. While generally peaceful towards most other fish species, Elongate Surgeonfish can be semi-aggressive or aggressive towards other tangs and surgeonfish, especially those of similar shape or diet, and should ideally be kept singly in a tank unless it’s a very large system where multiple tangs can be introduced simultaneously. They are generally considered reef-safe and typically will not bother corals or invertebrates, although some sources suggest caution with LPS corals if underfed, or that large specimens might knock over corals. A well-established tank with plenty of open swimming space and numerous hiding spots among live rock is essential.

**Tank Essentials**:
Given their potential size of up to 50 cm, Elongate Surgeonfish require a very spacious aquarium. Minimum tank size recommendations vary but generally start from 570 L (150 gallons) to 2500 L (660 gallons) for adult individuals, with larger being better. They thrive in stable water conditions with strong water movement and vigorous aeration.
* **pH Range**: 8.0 – 8.5.
* **Temperature**: 22-28°C (72-82°F).

**Diet**:
While juvenile Elongate Surgeonfish primarily feed on algae, adults shift towards consuming plankton in the wild. In captivity, their diet should be varied and consist of both plant-based and meaty foods. It is crucial to provide ample marine algae, such as Nori seaweed, Spirulina, and other high-quality vegetable flakes and pellets, as this strengthens their immune system and reduces aggression. They will also accept meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and pieces of fish flesh or mussel meat. Frequent feedings throughout the day are recommended due to their high metabolism.

**Origin and Lifespan**:
The Elongate Surgeonfish is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East and South Africa, Japan, Australia (Great Barrier Reef), and various Pacific Islands. They typically inhabit steep reef slopes, often in turbid waters, at depths ranging from 5 to 100 meters. With proper care, they can live for 10 to 15 years, with a maximum reported age of 23 years. They are mid-water swimmers, often seen in the “planktivore zone”.
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Elongate Surgeonfish: Graceful Giant for Your Reef!

Add a captivating presence to your large marine aquarium with the stunning Elongate Surgeonfish. Known for its elegant swimming and distinctive markings, this active species makes a magnificent centerpiece.

Overview

The Elongate Surgeonfish, also widely recognized as the Mata Tang, boasts a sleek, compressed body adorned with subtle horizontal bluish lines on a variable brown to grey-blue background. A striking yellow stripe across its eye further accentuates its face. This active swimmer glides gracefully through the water column, showcasing its distinctive appearance. Like all tangs, it possesses a sharp caudal spine for defense, a characteristic that gives “Surgeonfish” their name.

Care Level

Considered an intermediate to advanced species, the Elongate Surgeonfish thrives in a mature, spacious environment. While generally peaceful towards diverse tank mates, it can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior towards other tangs and surgeonfish, particularly those of similar shape. For best results, house singly or introduce multiple tangs simultaneously in exceptionally large systems. It is generally reef-safe.

Tank Essentials

A mature aquarium of at least 760 L is essential, providing ample open swimming space and plenty of hiding spots within live rock. Strong water flow and excellent oxygenation are crucial for this active species. Maintain stable water parameters: pH 8.0–8.5 and a temperature range of 22–28°C.

Diet

Primarily a planktivore in the wild, the Elongate Surgeonfish requires a varied diet in captivity. Offer frequent small feedings of high-quality marine algae, such as Spirulina and Nori, supplemented with meaty frozen foods like mysis shrimp. Consistent vegetable matter is key to their health.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Elongate Surgeonfish online from Corais de Vidro, you receive healthy aquarium fish acclimatized to captive life. We prioritize ethical sourcing and responsible shipping practices, ensuring your new companion arrives in prime condition, ready to thrive in your carefully prepared marine habitat.

• Scientific Name: *Acanthurus mata*
• Common Name / Variant: Elongate Surgeonfish / Mata Tang
• Maximum Size: 50 cm
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• pH Range: 8.0–8.5
• Temperature: 22–28°C
• Lifespan: 10–15 years
• Swimming Zone: Mid

Bring the majestic Elongate Surgeonfish to your display today!

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