Описание
The Acanthurus japonicus, or Powder Brown Tang, is an Indo-West Pacific surgeonfish with a laterally compressed, oval body that can reach up to 21 cm in length. Its coloration varies based on its mood, from brown to blue to yellow, but it is distinguished by a prominent white band between the mouth and eye, a bright orange stripe on the dorsal fin, and a yellow band on the caudal peduncle. It is a herbivorous, territorial fish that typically lives in small to large aggregations in reef environments.
Physical description
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Body shape: Oval and laterally compressed.
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Size: Can grow up to 21 cm (8.3 in) in length.
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Coloration:
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The body color can range from brown to blue to yellow, depending on the fish's emotional state.
- A wide, white band runs from the lower part of the eye to the upper lip.
- A bright orange or pink band is present along the soft-rayed part of the dorsal fin.
- The caudal peduncle is black with a yellow base.
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Fins:
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Dorsal fin: Has 9 spines and 28–31 soft rays.
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Anal fin: Has 3 spines and 26–29 soft rays.
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Caudal fin: Is truncate.
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Pectoral fins: Have yellow bases.
Habitat and behavior
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Habitat: Lives in clear lagoon and seaward reefs in the Indo-West Pacific, typically in shallow, exposed areas.
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Diet: Herbivorous, feeding on algae and seaweed.
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Social behavior: Can be found alone or in small to large aggregations. They are territorial and can be aggressive towards other fish, especially other tangs or conspecifics, which can lead to fights.
