Epaulette Surgeonfish

General information

The Epaulette Surgeonfish is one of the most peaceful surgeonfish in the hobby, though its large size makes it a better fit for only appropriately-roomy showcase aquariums. It has a bluish-greyish body with black bands extending back behind each eye and forwards from the stark-white ringtail. The Epaulette Surgeonfish is known to quickly change coloration from light to dark during courtship, aggression, or to indicate it is receptive to nearby cleaners. In its natural habitat, the Epaulette Surgeonfish is generally found schooling in small groups along reefs or in clear-water lagoons. A very large aquarium with plenty of water movement, large amounts of live rock to provide both plenty of swimming room, and territories within the live rock is necessary. These are great fish for controlling algae in the saltwater fish or reef aquarium.