Orangespine unicornfish

Naso liturgatus

Family : Acanthuridae

FishMarinesurgeonfish

Surgeonfish with a frontal horn and bright orange spines. Requires a very large aquarium.

Popularity

Advanced marine fish

large tank + demanding parameters

Availability

Specialty only

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

Indo-Pacific

Récifs coralliens de l'océan Indien et Pacifique tropical.

Description

Naso liturgatus is a large surgeonfish recognizable by its frontal protuberance (horn) and two bright orange spines on the caudal peduncle. Juveniles are duller in color. It is a herbivore feeding mainly on algae. In the aquarium, it is active and needs ample swimming space. It can be kept with other robust fish but may become aggressive towards conspecifics.

Habitat

Region :

Coral reefs and outer reef slopes

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature24–28 °C

pH8.1–8.4

GH8–12 °dGH

KH8–12 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 0.1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty

4/5

Diet

Herbivore

Min. tank

800 L

Min. group

Adult size

45 cm

Lifespan

15 years

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Propagation

non-applicable (poisson)

Care notes

Tank of at least 800 liters, with strong current and powerful filtration. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables. Provide hiding spots and large swimming space. Handle with care due to spines.

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