Common name: Orangespine Unicornfish

General Information

The Orangespine Unicornfish, scientifically known as Naso lituratus, is a striking and popular species among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. With its vibrant colors and unique body shape, it is easily recognizable and often sought after for its beauty and dynamic presence in home aquariums.

This species is known for its distinctive orange spines on either side of the tail, which give it both its common name and a touch of flair. It is a part of the surgeonfish family, renowned for their scalpel-like spines used for defense. While they are not typically aggressive, these spines can be used if the fish feels threatened.

Care

Orangespine Unicornfish are best suited for larger aquariums due to their active swimming nature and potential adult size. A tank of at least 500 liters is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and to accommodate their territorial behavior. They thrive in well-oxygenated water with stable salinity and temperature levels, mimicking their natural reef habitats.

To create an enriching environment, incorporate plenty of live rock formations and open swimming spaces. This setup not only provides them with hiding spots but also supports their grazing behavior, as they love to nip on algae growing on the rocks.

Diet and Feeding

As herbivores, Orangespine Unicornfish have a diet primarily consisting of algae. In captivity, they should be provided with a variety of marine algae, seaweed sheets, and high-quality herbivore pellets. Supplement their diet with occasional offerings of mysis shrimp or other protein-rich foods to ensure balanced nutrition.

Feed them several small meals throughout the day to mimic their natural grazing habits and to keep them healthy and active.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Orangespine Unicornfish is generally peaceful but can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior, especially towards other tangs or similarly shaped fish. They are best kept with other peaceful reef-safe species, and it's advisable to introduce them into the tank last to minimize territorial disputes.

Reproduction

Breeding Orangespine Unicornfish in captivity is quite rare and challenging. They are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the open water, which makes it difficult to replicate their breeding conditions in a home aquarium.

Health and Common Issues

These fish are generally hardy but can be susceptible to marine ich and other parasites if water quality is not maintained. Regular water changes and a well-balanced diet are crucial to keeping them healthy. Quarantine new additions to prevent the spread of disease.

Habitat

Naso lituratus is naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Hawaiian Islands to the Great Barrier Reef and the Indian Ocean. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, often seen grazing on algae-covered rocks in shallow waters.