Animal Species:Orangeblotch Surgeonfish, Acanthurus olivaceus Bloch & Schneider, 1801

The Orangeblotch Surgeonfish can be recognised by the elongated orange blotch behind the eye.  The species occurs widely in the western and central Pacific regions.

Orangeblotch Surgeonfish at South Solitary Island

Orangeblotch Surgeonfish at South Solitary Island
Ian Shaw © Ian Shaw

Alternative Name/s

Orangeband Surgeonfish, Orangebar Surgeonfish, Orangespot Surgeon-fish

Identification

Adult Orangeblotch Surgeonfish have a distinct elongated orange blotch behind the eye.  This may be less distinct in young individuals.  Juveniles are bright yellow with a blue anal fin margin.

Size range

35 cm

Distribution

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information.  Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

Acanthurus olivaceus

Distribution by collection data

Ozcam map of Orangeblotch Surgeonfish specimens in the Australian Museum.

What does this mean?

Classification

Species:
olivaceus
Genus:
Acanthurus
Family:
Acanthuridae
Order:
Perciformes
Class:
Actinopterygii
Subphylum:
Vertebrata
Phylum:
Chordata

What does this mean?

References

  1. Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
  2. Kuiter, R.H. & H. Debelius. 2001. Surgeonfishes, Rabbitfishes and their relatives. TMC. Pp. 208.


Mark McGrouther , Collection Manager, Ichthyology
Last Updated:

Tags fishes, ichthyology, Orangeblotch Surgeonfish, Acanthurus olivaceus, Acanthuridae, yellow, orange, 'normal fish', 30 cm - 1 m, no-pattern, adult,