Orangespine Unicornfish

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Naso lituratus - (Forster, 1801)
Orangespine Unicornfish

Image:Naso lituratus.jpg

This species prefers a tank with plenty of swimming space. Scott W. Michael

[edit] Overview

This much-loved fish feeds mostly on brown macroalgae and will usually eliminate these plants from a reef tank. Most individuals will take a variety of foods. A rare individual may nip at large-polyped stony corals and low-growing soft corals.

Family: Acanthuridae

Other common name(s):

  • Naso Tang
  • Clown Tang
  • Masked Unicornfish
  • Orangespine Surgeonfish

Native range:

Habitat: This species is usually found in small groups in areas of coral, rock, or rubble of lagoon and seaward reefs.

Maximum length: 46 cm (18 in)

Minimum aquarium size: 684 L (181 gal)

Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)

[edit] Feeding

Feed a mixed diet, the bulk of which should consist of vegetable matter. Give frozen foods that contain Spirulina and some of the dried brown algae available from pet shops or Asian food stores. Spends a major part of the day grazing, so vegetable matter should be introduced daily if microalgae is not present. Frozen foods should also be presented several times a day.

[edit] Aquarium Compatibility

It is usually not aggressive toward tankmates, except members of its own species and possibly congeners.

[edit] Special Care

This fish needs plenty of swimming space and suitable hiding places.

[edit] Notes

When stressed or at night, it develops a blotchy color pattern. It may jump out of an open aquarium. Naso elegans is the “sister species” from the Indian Ocean.

Reference: A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes
Image credit: SWM
Text credit: SWM
Facts about Orangespine UnicornfishRDF feed
Common name Orangespine Unicornfish  +, Naso Tang  +, Clown Tang  +, Masked Unicornfish  +, and Orangespine Surgeonfish  +
Family Acanthuridae  +
Genus Naso  +
Image credit SWM  +
Maximum length 18 in  +
Minimum aquarium size 181 gal  +
Native range Japan  +, Great Barrier Reef  +, New Caledonia  +, Hawaiian Islands  +, French Polynesia  +, Pitcairn Islands  +, and Clipperton Islands  +
Reference A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes  +
Specific name lituratus  +
Text credit SWM  +
Water max temp 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F)  +
Water min temp 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F)  +
Water type Marine  +
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