[Coral-List] surgeonfish spines as weapons

[Robinson, Michael P]

Dear coral-listers,

Does anyone have observations of any species of surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) using their caudal spines as weapons?  That is the conventional wisdom on the function of these spines, but I am interested in evidence of their use.

For example, there is a photo in Jack Randall's _Surgeonfishes of the World_ of wounds on a surgeonfish that match the  size and shape of a conspecific's spines.

If you have any evidence or observations of a surgeonfish using its spine(s) either defensively or aggressively, I would love to hear about it.  Anything is appreciated: photos, videos or stories.

If you prefer, send me a private email and I will post a summary to the list.

Thanks in advance!
Mike Robinson

mprobinson at barry.edu
Barry University


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Michael P. Robinson, Asst. Prof.

Dept. of Biology, Barry University

11300 NE 2 AVE, Miami Shores FL 33161-6695

mprobinson at mail.barry.edu<mailto:mprobinson at mail.barry.edu>
http://www.barry.edu/michael-robinson/
office & lab: NHS 216B

office: 305-899-4930;   lab: 305-899-3909;   fax: 305-899-3225

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