Common name: Elongate unicornfish
General information
The Whitemargin Unicornfish, Naso lopezi, is a distinctive species known for its prominent horn-like extension on its forehead, which is characteristic of the genus Naso. This species is not as commonly kept as some other members of the unicornfish family, but it can be a unique addition to larger marine aquariums. The Whitemargin Unicornfish has a sleek, silvery-blue body with a striking white margin running along the edges of its tail and dorsal fin.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 45 cm (1′6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Herbivore Prefers algae, seaweed sheets.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to conspecifics.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilySurgeonfishAcanthuridae
- GenusUnicornfishNaso
- SpeciesElongate unicornfishNaso lopezi Herre, 1927
Care
Whitemargin Unicornfish require large tanks due to their potential size and active swimming behavior. They are best suited for tanks of at least 500 liters (132 gallons). These fish are herbivores and need a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter to maintain their health and coloration. They can be prone to developing lateral line disease if their dietary needs are not met, so variety and proper nutrition are crucial.
Reproduction
In the wild, Naso lopezi forms large schools during the breeding season and engages in pelagic spawning, where eggs and sperm are released into the water column. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare and not well documented.
Habitat
The Whitemargin Unicornfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. They are typically associated with coral reefs and can be found at depths ranging from shallow lagoons to outer reef slopes. They are often observed in groups or schools, especially when young.