The Gold-Rimmed Surgeonfish, also known as the Whitecheek Surgeonfish, is a striking and highly recognizable tang species. Its body ranges from black to deep purplish blue, accented by tiny white cheek marks between the eyes and mouth. The pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins appear dark blue with subtle electric-blue edging, while the tail fin is blue with a bold orange vertical bar. A clean, yellow stripe runs across the upper body, forming the signature wishbone patternthat makes this species instantly identifiable.
This species brings motion, contrast, and elegance to large reef systems while functioning as a valuable algae grazer.
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate–Difficult
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially toward other Acanthurus tangs)
Adult Size: ~8 inches
The Gold-Rimmed tang can be territorial with other tangs—particularly those with similar body shape or color. It is generally peaceful toward unrelated fish species and does well in stable, mature systems with ample swimming room and high oxygenation.
While this species will eat the meaty foods offered in community reef tanks, it is essential that it receives regular marine-based algae in its diet. Proper herbivore nutrition improves:
Immune strength
Coloration
Stress resistance
Long-term health
Feed at least 3× per week:
Nori/Seaweed sheets (Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, Ocean Nutrition)
Spirulina herbivore pellets
Macroalgae
Occasional mysis/brine (supplement only)
Large reef tanks (125–200+ gallons)
Aquarists who enjoy bold, high-contrast coloration
Systems needing algae control
Experienced hobbyists comfortable managing Acanthurus aggression
The Gold-Rimmed Surgeonfish, also known as the Whitecheek Surgeonfish, is a striking and highly recognizable tang species. Its body ranges from black to deep purplish blue, accented by tiny white cheek marks between the eyes and mouth. The pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins appear dark blue with subtle electric-blue edging, while the tail fin is blue with a bold orange vertical bar. A clean, yellow stripe runs across the upper body, forming the signature wishbone patternthat makes this species instantly identifiable.
This species brings motion, contrast, and elegance to large reef systems while functioning as a valuable algae grazer.
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate–Difficult
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially toward other Acanthurus tangs)
Adult Size: ~8 inches
The Gold-Rimmed tang can be territorial with other tangs—particularly those with similar body shape or color. It is generally peaceful toward unrelated fish species and does well in stable, mature systems with ample swimming room and high oxygenation.
While this species will eat the meaty foods offered in community reef tanks, it is essential that it receives regular marine-based algae in its diet. Proper herbivore nutrition improves:
Immune strength
Coloration
Stress resistance
Long-term health
Feed at least 3× per week:
Nori/Seaweed sheets (Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, Ocean Nutrition)
Spirulina herbivore pellets
Macroalgae
Occasional mysis/brine (supplement only)
Large reef tanks (125–200+ gallons)
Aquarists who enjoy bold, high-contrast coloration
Systems needing algae control
Experienced hobbyists comfortable managing Acanthurus aggression
