Common name: Elegant unicornfish

General information

The Naso Tang, also known as the Elegant Unicornfish or Orange-spine Unicornfish, is a striking marine fish that adds both beauty and grace to any saltwater aquarium. It is part of the Acanthuridae family, which is known for the distinctive spines located on the tails of its members, often referred to as 'surgeonfish' due to these scalpel-like spines. Naso elegans is particularly noted for its elegant, elongated streamers and the bright orange spine on either side of its caudal peduncle.

Adult Naso Tangs can exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males developing more pronounced streamers and brighter colors during the breeding season. They are herbivorous, primarily feeding on marine algae in the wild, which helps control algae growth in the aquarium.

Care

Naso Tangs require a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing on microalgae. They are active swimmers and can grow up to 45 cm (18 inches) in length, so a tank of at least 400 liters (100 gallons) is recommended. They thrive in a well-oxygenated environment with strong water movement and stable water quality.

A varied diet is crucial for the Naso Tang's health, including high-quality marine-based flake and pellet foods, as well as fresh or dried seaweed and macroalgae. It's important to feed them multiple times a day due to their constant grazing nature.

Reproduction

In the wild, Naso Tangs are pelagic spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic before settling down and growing into juveniles. Breeding Naso Tangs in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Naso elegans is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoon waters, often in clear current-swept channels at depths ranging from 1 to 90 meters (3 to 295 feet). They are typically seen in small groups or as solitary individuals.