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Acanthophyllia, often called a "doughnut" or "meat" coral, is a large, solitary stony coral. It's characterized by a single, fleshy polyp that hides a strong, calcium-based skeleton. These corals are known for their vibrant colors, patterns, and intense fluorescence.  Here's a more detailed description: Appearance: Acanthophyllia are large, single polyp stony corals with a fleshy, meaty appearance, hence the names "meat" or "doughnut" coral. They are not transparent and have a large, solid base.  Skeleton: Underneath the polyp is a thick, hard skeleton made of calcium.  Color and Patterns: They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including greens, reds, blues, purples, and combinations of these.  Size: Acanthophyllia are known for their large size, making them a prominent centerpiece in reef aquariums.  Growth: They are considered slow-growing stony corals.  Care: They generally require moderate lighting and low water flow. They can also benefit from supplemental feeding of meaty foods like mysis and krill.

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Acanthophyllia, often called a "doughnut" or "meat" coral, is a large, solitary stony coral. It's characterized by a single, fleshy polyp that hides a strong, calcium-based skeleton. These corals are known for their vibrant colors, patterns, and intense fluorescence.  Here's a more detailed description: Appearance: Acanthophyllia are large, single polyp stony corals with a fleshy, meaty appearance, hence the names "meat" or "doughnut" coral. They are not transparent and have a large, solid base.  Skeleton: Underneath the polyp is a thick, hard skeleton made of calcium.  Color and Patterns: They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including greens, reds, blues, purples, and combinations of these.  Size: Acanthophyllia are known for their large size, making them a prominent centerpiece in reef aquariums.  Growth: They are considered slow-growing stony corals.  Care: They generally require moderate lighting and low water flow. They can also benefit from supplemental feeding of meaty foods like mysis and krill.

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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 Body shape: Oval and laterally compressed.  Size: Can grow up to 21 cm (8.3 in) in length.  Coloration: 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.  Fins: Dorsal fin: Has 9 spines and 28–31 soft rays.  Anal fin: Has 3 spines and 26–29 soft rays.  Caudal fin: Is truncate.  Pectoral fins: Have yellow bases.  Habitat and behavior Habitat: Lives in clear lagoon and seaward reefs in the Indo-West Pacific, typically in shallow, exposed areas.  Diet: Herbivorous, feeding on algae and seaweed.  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. 

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Acanthurus olivaceus, the orange-band surgeonfish, the orange-shoulder surgeonfish or the orangebar tang,is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae, this family includes the surgeonfishes, unicornfishes and tangs. It lives in the tropical waters of the Indo-west Pacific. Taxonomy Acanthurus olivaceus was first formally described in 1801 by the German naturalists Marcus Elieser Bloch and Johann Gottlob Theaenus Schneider with its type locality given as Tahiti in the Society Islands,This species is closely related to the range restricted Marquesas surgeonfish (A. reversus), and together these taxa form a species complex within the genus Acanthurus.The genus Acanthurus is one of two genera in the tribe Acanthurini which is one of three tribes in the subfamily Acanthurinae which is one of two subfamilies in the family Acanthuridae. Description The orange band surgeonfish is a deep-bodied, laterally-compressed oval fish, rather over twice as long as it is deep, with a maximum length of 35 cm (14 in), although a more typical length is 25 cm (10 in). Both dorsal and anal fins are long and low, extending as far as the caudal peduncle. The dorsal fin has nine spines and 23 to 25 soft rays while the anal fin has three spines and 22 to 24 soft rays. The tail fin is crescent-shaped, the points growing longer as the fish gets older. The adult fish is greyish-brown; a sharp vertical line usually separates the paler front half of the fish from the darker hind portion. There is a distinctive orange bar, surrounded by a purplish-black margin, immediately behind the top of the gill cover, and blue and orange lines at the bases of the fins. Like all surgeonfish, this species has a pair of scalpel-like scales that project upward from the caudal peduncle. Larger males develop a convex snout which clearly differentiates them from females. Juvenile fish are yellow. Distribution and habitat This fish is found in the tropical eastern Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. Its range extends from Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands to southern Japan, Western, Northern and Eastern Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Hawaii. It is associated with reefs, often on outer slopes and in more exposed locations. As an adult, it is a solitary fish or sometimes joins schools, with a depth range of between about 9 and 46 m (30 and 150 ft), but juveniles are found in shallower water in sheltered locations in small groups. Ecology The orange band surgeonfish feeds on detritus and on algae growing on the seabed, as well as the film of diatoms and filamentous algae that grows on sand and other substrates.[2] It often forms schools with parrotfish, tangs and other species of surgeonfish, which all have similar diets; their grazing is important in maintaining biodiversity by keeping rocks free from excessive growth of algae so that coral larvae can find suitable habitat to settle. The fish can change colour from dark to pale almost instantaneously. Status The orange band surgeonfish has a wide distribution in the tropical Indo-Pacific region and is moderately common. It is sometimes found in fish markets and in the aquarium trade but is not a species targeted by fisheries. No particular threats have been recognised.

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Acanthurus olivaceus, the orange-band surgeonfish, the orange-shoulder surgeonfish or the orangebar tang,is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae, this family includes the surgeonfishes, unicornfishes and tangs. It lives in the tropical waters of the Indo-west Pacific. Taxonomy Acanthurus olivaceus was first formally described in 1801 by the German naturalists Marcus Elieser Bloch and Johann Gottlob Theaenus Schneider with its type locality given as Tahiti in the Society Islands,This species is closely related to the range restricted Marquesas surgeonfish (A. reversus), and together these taxa form a species complex within the genus Acanthurus.The genus Acanthurus is one of two genera in the tribe Acanthurini which is one of three tribes in the subfamily Acanthurinae which is one of two subfamilies in the family Acanthuridae. Description The orange band surgeonfish is a deep-bodied, laterally-compressed oval fish, rather over twice as long as it is deep, with a maximum length of 35 cm (14 in), although a more typical length is 25 cm (10 in). Both dorsal and anal fins are long and low, extending as far as the caudal peduncle. The dorsal fin has nine spines and 23 to 25 soft rays while the anal fin has three spines and 22 to 24 soft rays. The tail fin is crescent-shaped, the points growing longer as the fish gets older. The adult fish is greyish-brown; a sharp vertical line usually separates the paler front half of the fish from the darker hind portion. There is a distinctive orange bar, surrounded by a purplish-black margin, immediately behind the top of the gill cover, and blue and orange lines at the bases of the fins. Like all surgeonfish, this species has a pair of scalpel-like scales that project upward from the caudal peduncle. Larger males develop a convex snout which clearly differentiates them from females. Juvenile fish are yellow. Distribution and habitat This fish is found in the tropical eastern Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. Its range extends from Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands to southern Japan, Western, Northern and Eastern Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Hawaii. It is associated with reefs, often on outer slopes and in more exposed locations. As an adult, it is a solitary fish or sometimes joins schools, with a depth range of between about 9 and 46 m (30 and 150 ft), but juveniles are found in shallower water in sheltered locations in small groups. Ecology The orange band surgeonfish feeds on detritus and on algae growing on the seabed, as well as the film of diatoms and filamentous algae that grows on sand and other substrates.[2] It often forms schools with parrotfish, tangs and other species of surgeonfish, which all have similar diets; their grazing is important in maintaining biodiversity by keeping rocks free from excessive growth of algae so that coral larvae can find suitable habitat to settle. The fish can change colour from dark to pale almost instantaneously. Status The orange band surgeonfish has a wide distribution in the tropical Indo-Pacific region and is moderately common. It is sometimes found in fish markets and in the aquarium trade but is not a species targeted by fisheries. No particular threats have been recognised, so the International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed its conservation status as being of least concern.

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The Acanthurus pyroferus, or mimic surgeonfish, is a species that shows distinct differences between juveniles and adults. Juveniles are bright yellow with blue highlights, mimicking angelfish, while adults are typically dark brown to purplish-black with a yellowish-tan front. Both have an orange patch at the gill opening, a distinctive defense spine on the tail, and reach up to 29 cm in length.  Juvenile appearance Body: Oval-shaped and bright yellow. Highlights: Blue highlights around the eyes and gill covers. Mimicry: They mimic species like the Lemonpeel Angelfish (Centropyge flavissimus).  Adult appearance Body: Disk-shaped and can range from yellowish-tan to purplish-black.  Coloration: Often a chocolate brown with a grayish head.  Highlights: Red-orange highlights around the eyes and pectoral fins.  Gill opening: A distinct orange patch is present at the gill opening.  Caudal fin: Has a white posterior margin.  Other characteristics Size: Adults can reach up to 29 cm (11 inches) in length.  Fins: The dorsal fin has 8 spines and 27-30 soft rays; the anal fin has 3 spines and 24-28 soft rays.  Tail spine: Like other surgeonfish, they have a pair of sharp, depressible spines on either side of their tail base for defense.  Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting mixed coral, rock, and sand areas of reefs.  Diet: They are herbivores that primarily feed on algae. 

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Acanthurus pyroferus, also known as the chocolate surgeonfish or mimic surgeonfish, is a species of surgeonfish. Adults are typically dark brown or purplish-black with a yellowish tan anterior. They have a distinct orange patch at the gill opening and a prominent yellow band on the posterior margin of their caudal fin. Juveniles exhibit different color patterns that mimic other fish species like lemonpeel angelfish.  Key features of Acanthurus pyroferus: Size: They can grow up to 29 cm (11 inches) in length.  Coloration: Adults are usually dark brown to purplish-black, sometimes with a yellowish tan anterior. They have an orange patch at the gill opening and a yellow band on their tail.  Fins: The dorsal fin has 8 spines and 27-30 soft rays, while the anal fin has 3 spines and 24-28 soft rays. The tail fin edge is lunate in adults and round in juveniles.  Tail Spine: A single, depressible spine on the side of the tail base, which is part of their defense mechanism.  Diet: They are herbivores and primarily graze on algae.  Habitat: Found in reef environments, including the Indo-Pacific region, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean

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Acanthurus triostegus, commonly known as convict tang, manini,convict surgeonfish, convict surgeon, or fiveband surgeonfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae which includes the surgeonfishes, unicornfishes and tangs. This species has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution. Taxonomy Acanthurus triostegus was first formally described in 1758 as Chaetodon triostegus by Carl Linnaeus, the description being published in the 10 edition of Systema Naturae with its type locality given as "Indies".The genus Acanthurus is one of two genera in the tribe Acanthurini which is one of three tribes in the subfamily Acanthurinae which is one of two subfamilies in the family Acanthuridae. Etymology Acanthurus triostegus was given the specific name triostegus which means "three covers", this may refer to the three branchiostegal membranes. Description The convict tang is so called because of its bold black stripes on a yellowish background. It is a laterally-compressed oval-shaped fishwith a maximum length of about 26–27 cm (10–11 in). The head is small with a pointed snout and a terminal mouth with thick lips. It has six black stripes which distinguishes it from the zebra tang (Acanthurus polyzona) which has nine, and has a more restricted range in the Indian Ocean. The first black stripe is oblique and passes through the eye. There are two black spots on the caudal peduncle, and on each side there is a sharp, retractable spine, which is used in offence or defence. Distribution and habitat Acanthurus triostegus occurs in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. Its range extends from the East African coast and Madagascar to southwestern Japan, Australia and Central America, including many Pacific island groups. It is found over hard bottoms in lagoons, reef slopes, bays and estuaries. Juveniles are common in tide pools, and larger fish are found at depths down to about 90 m (300 ft). Biology Acanthurus triostegus frequently feed in the vicinity of freshwater discharges, grazing filamentous algae off the rocks.Typically these tangs graze on filamentous algae growing on coral or rocky substrates. The adults aggregate in large schools to feed and these overwhelm damselfishes attempting to defend their territories. The males and females gather in aggegations to spawn. Utilisation Acanthurus triostegus is targeted as a food fish in many parts of its range and in some areas is commercially targeted. In Hawaii it is fished for by recreational anglers and it is also caught for the aquarium trade.

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Acropora corals are hard corals characterized by their branched or tabular morphology, fast growth rate, and high morphological plasticity. They are a vital functional group in coral reefs, creating complex habitats and covering hectares of reef surface.  Here's a more detailed look: Key Characteristics: Growth Pattern: Acropora corals grow in colonies, with branches formed by axial and radial polyps.  Habitat: They are typically found in shallow, clear, unpolluted water with ample light, temperature above 20°C, and constant salinity.  Morphology: Their colonies can take on various forms, including arborescent (tree-like), table-like, corymbose (cushion-like), digitate (finger-like), hispidose, and encrusting.  Importance: Acropora corals are crucial for building the structure of coral reefs and providing habitats for a variety of marine life.  Factors Affecting Acropora: Water Quality: Clear, unpolluted water is essential for growth and survival. Lighting: They require ample light for their symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) to photosynthesize. Temperature: Optimal temperatures above 20°C are needed. Salinity: Constant salinity levels are important.   

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The Amblyeleotris guttata, also known as the Spotted prawn-goby, is a small, peaceful fish typically found in pairs, often associated with Pistol shrimp. They are characterized by a pale white or grey body with orange spots and dark markings on the pelvic fins and eyes. These gobies are commensal, meaning they live in a mutually beneficial relationship with Pistol shrimp, and are considered reef-safe.  Key Characteristics of Amblyeleotris guttata: Appearance: Pale grey or white body with bright orange spots, darker pelvic fins, and black eye markings.  Commensal Relationship: They live in association with a pair of Pistol shrimp (genus Alpheus).  Diet: They are carnivores and planktonophages, with them as predators.  Temperament: Peaceful and reef-compatible.  Size: Typically reach a maximum size of 7 cm.  Origin: Native to the reef environments of the Western Pacific Ocean.  In Pairs: Spotted prawn-goby are often kept in pairs within an aquarium, and their natural behavior is to live with Pistol shrimp

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The ocellaris clownfish, or Amphiprion ocellaris, is a vibrant marine fish known for its striking orange body, three white bands, and black outlines. These fish, also called false percula clownfish or common clownfish, form a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, using their mucus-covered skin to avoid being stung by the anemone's tentacles.  Physical Characteristics: Color: Primarily bright orange with three distinct white bands.  Bands: The white bands are usually outlined in black. The middle band often has a rounded bulge in the middle.  Size: Typically grow to about 3-5 inches (8-11 cm) in length.  Fins: Black markings on the fins, particularly the dorsal fin, are common.  Other Notable Features: Symbiotic Relationship: They have a mutually beneficial relationship with sea anemones, living among their tentacles for protection from predators.  Protective Mucus: A special layer of mucus on their skin protects them from the anemone's stinging cells.  Protandrous Hermaphrodites: All begin life as males and can change to females as they mature, with the largest fish in a group typically being female.  Regional Variations: While typically orange, some can be darker red-orange or even black with white bands, depending on their location. 

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The Amphiprion percula, commonly known as the orange clownfish or percula clownfish, is a small, brightly colored marine fish characterized by its orange body and three distinctive white bands outlined in black. These bands are located behind the eyes, in the middle of the body (often with a forward-bulging section), and near the tail. The fins are also edged with black. They are often confused with the similar-looking Amphiprion ocellaris, but can be distinguished by the number of dorsal fin spines (10 in A. percula vs. 11 in A. ocellaris) and the thickness of the black outlining on the white bands.  Key Characteristics: Coloration: Bright orange body with three white bands edged in black.  Bands: The first band is behind the eyes, the second in the middle of the body, and the third near the tail.  Size: Can grow up to 11 cm (4.3 inches) in length.  Dorsal Fin Spines: Typically 10.  Symbiotic Relationship: Lives in a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, providing protection and receiving a safe habitat.  Social Structure: Organized in size-based hierarchies within anemones.  Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger than males. 

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