Sohal surgeonfish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sohal surgeonfish |
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The sohal surgeonfish (also called the sohal tang) is a type of fish that lives in the ocean. It belongs to a group of fish called surgeonfishes, which also includes unicornfishes and tangs. You can find this fish in the northwestern part of the Indian Ocean.
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About the Sohal Surgeonfish Name
The sohal surgeonfish was first officially described in 1775. A scientist named Peter Forsskål gave it the name Chaetodon sohal. The name sohal comes from the Arabic word for this fish. People living along the Red Sea coast use this name.
What Does the Sohal Surgeonfish Look Like?
The sohal surgeonfish has a unique look. Its body is about half as deep as it is long. It has thin black stripes that run along its body. These stripes are separated by greenish-olive lines. The stripes are more curvy on its upper body. On its lower body, they are wider and straighter.
Fins and Colors
This fish has black fins on its back, belly, and bottom. These fins have bright blue edges. There is a large orange patch on its side, right under its front fin. The part of its tail near its body also has an orange area. Its tail fin is shaped like a crescent moon. This fish can grow up to 40 centimeters (about 16 inches) long.
Where Do Sohal Surgeonfish Live?
Sohal surgeonfish are found only in the northwestern Indian Ocean. This includes the Red Sea and along the coast of the Arabian Peninsula to the Persian Gulf.
Finding New Homes
Sometimes, these fish are seen in the Mediterranean Sea. They might get there if someone releases them from an aquarium. Another way is by swimming through the Suez Canal from the Red Sea. They usually live on the outer edges of coral reefs. These reefs are often exposed to strong ocean currents. They typically live in waters up to about 20 meters (65 feet) deep.
Sohal Surgeonfish Behavior and Diet
Sohal surgeonfish can be seen alone or in small groups. They are known to be very territorial. This means they protect their own space.
Special Spine
These fish have a sharp spine near their tail. This spine is like a surgeon's scalpel, which is how they get their name. It has been reported that this spine can deliver a mild venom.
What They Eat
Sohal surgeonfish eat algae that grows on hard surfaces like rocks. Even though they are often solitary, they will sometimes gather in groups. They do this to eat algae in areas that belong to other fish. The fish that owns the territory guards its food. However, the territory owner might spend time outside its area or patrolling its boundaries.
How People Use Sohal Surgeonfish
People catch sohal surgeonfish for food. They are also popular in the aquarium trade. Many people like to keep them in their home fish tanks.
