Investigation of biological characteristics and breeding potentials of some species of surgeonfish (Family: Acanthuridae) inhabiting the Persian Gulf for exploitation in the ornamental fish breeding industry

The coral reefs of the Persian Gulf are among the richest coral reserves systems in the world. These valuable habitats have a remarkable diversity of aquatic species, especially fish. One of the important ecological groups living in coral reefs of the Persian Gulf is surgeonfish (Family: Acanthuridae), which have been considered by researchers in many studies. These fish can be introduced as breeding options to the ornamental fish industry because of their colour variation and aesthetic values. In this regard, the present study aimed to investigate the biological characteristics and breeding potentials of some species of surgeonfish inhabiting the Persian Gulf for exploitation in the saltwater ornamental fish industry. The study showed that surgeonfish species of the Persian Gulf such as Acanthurus blochii, A. sohal, A. nigrofuscus, A. triostegus and A. xanthopterus have significant potential for introducing to the ornamental fish industry. Hence, it is recommended to take the necessary measures to provide suitable conditions for production of these ornamental fish species in the country.