Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish

Acanthurus tristis

The Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish, also known as Acanthurus tristis, is a marine fish found in the eastern Indian Ocean. It is recognized by its yellowish-brown to dark brown body, with adults displaying a distinctive dark band from the chin to the operculum. The fish also features a white ring around its lower lip and a slender white margin on its caudal fin. Juveniles are noted for their mimicry of the angelfish Centropyge eibli, with pale brown bodies and orange stripes, chest, and eye rings. They also have a black caudal fin with a bright blue rear margin. This species inhabits seaward and lagoon reefs, preferring areas with mixed sand, coral rubble, and rock. It is commonly found at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. The Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish is distributed from the Maldives and Chagos Archipelago to the Andaman Sea and south to Java, including Christmas Island in Australian waters. In terms of conservation, the Indian Ocean Mimic Surgeonfish is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is harmless to humans and is part of the commercial aquarium trade.