Name: Sohal

Local name: Geanalshyookh

Scientific name: Acanthurus sohal

Classification: Class: ray-finned fishes; Order: perch-likes; Family: surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae)

Synonym: Acanthurus lineatus

Size: It reaches a total length of 40 cm.


The Sohal is highly territorial and inhabits seaward coral and rocky areas exposed to surge, occurring from near the surface to 10 m depth. It feeds on a variety of algae, particularly Sargassum, and filamentous green algae. It has been reported to be aggressive towards divers.


The species is restricted to the seas surrounding the Arabian Peninsula, from the northern Red Sea, via southern Arabia to the Arabian Gulf.

Conservation status:

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies the Sohal as Least Concern (LC) in its global assessment, but Vulnerable (VU) in the regional assessment for the Arabian Gulf. It is caught by traps (gargoor) and nets and used in the aquarium trade.


The body is deep and compressed and there is a scalpel-like spine on the side of the caudal peduncle. The sides of the head and body are covered with a series of irregular black stripes, separated by pale bluish grey lines. Ventrally, the body is uniform grey to tan. In adults, there is a large bright orange blotch behind the head, and the caudal spine and socket bright orange. Median fins are black, bordered by blue.