Naso
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Family: Acanthuridae
Species in Genus Naso:
UNICORNFISHES
These unusual acanthurids are only suitable for the largest reef tanks. Most get quite large (some sporting a hornlike forehead protuberance) and they are very active, spending most of their time in shoals, high in the water column.
They feed on zooplankton and macroalgae. Some species will not thrive unless brown macroalgae is provided. Commercially available dried algae sheets and flakes will suffice for most species. Juveniles and subadults spend their days feeding, so vegetable matter should be introduced daily in an aquarium where microalgae is not present, and frozen foods should also be presented several times a day. Adults feed more on zooplankton and should be fed mysid shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and frozen preparations for herbivores.
The caudal peduncle spines of the Naso species are stout and fixed in an erect position, making them easily entangled in a fish net.
These fishes tend to be rather durable if they are provided with enough swimming space. They are typically not aggressive toward tankmates, except for members of their own species and possibly related forms.
| Family | Acanthuridae + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Text credit | SWM + |