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( Surgeonfish)
Acanthurus
Ctenochaetus
Naso (unicornfishes)
Paracanthurus
Prionurus
Zebrasoma (tangs) The distinctive characteristic of the family is a pair of spines, one on either side of the tail, which are dangerously sharp. Both the dorsal and anal fins are large, extending for most of the length of the body. The small mouths have a single row of teeth used for grazing on algae.[1] Most species are small, ranging up to 30 cm, but the whitemargin unicornfish Naso annulatus can reach a meter in length. These fish can grow quickly in aquariums so it is advisable to check the average growth size and suitability before adding to a marine aquarium. The name of the family is derived from the Greek words akantha and oura, which loosely translate to "thorn" and "tail", respectively. This refers to the distinguishing characteristic of the family, the "scalpel" found each member's caudal peduncle.[1]
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Surgeonfish Subcategories
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