Twospot surgeonfish
📖 Overview
Inhabits coral and rubble areas of deep lagoon and seaward reefs. Usually solitary, grazing on surface algae . Feeds by scooping film of detritus and unicellular algae (e.g. dinoflagellate Gambierdiscus toxicus) that produce ciguatera toxin making this species a key link in the ciguatera food chain . Caught with nets .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 24 - 27; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 22 - 25. Prominent black spot at the rear base of dorsal and anal fins; adults with a bluish ring around the eye (Ref 1602). Dorsal and anal fins dark brown. Caudal fin brown in adults, yellow in young. Edge of lips smooth. Upper teeth usually with 5 denticulations (not including tip). Anterior gill rakers 23-29 (Ref 42056). : short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Twospot surgeonfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - 60 m , usually 10 - 50 m . Tropical; 24°N - 34°S, 29°E - 122°W East Africa to the Tuamoto Islands, north to southern Japan, south to central New South Wales (Australia) and New Caledonia.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Twospot surgeonfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.1 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 130 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Twospot surgeonfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Twospot surgeonfish.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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