Common name: Naso Tang

General information

The Naso Tang, also known as the Lipstick Tang or Orange-spine Unicornfish, is a striking and popular marine fish among aquarists. Its scientific name is Stichopus naso, and it belongs to the family Acanthuridae, which includes surgeonfish and tangs. This species is known for its distinct orange lips and the elongated horn-like extension on its forehead that develops as the fish matures. The Naso Tang can reach up to 45 cm (18 inches) in length in the wild, making it one of the larger tang species kept in home aquariums.

Care

Naso Tangs require a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and a well-established environment with stable water conditions. They are herbivores and need a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter to maintain their health and vibrant coloration. It's important to provide them with a variety of foods, including dried seaweed, spirulina, and high-quality herbivore pellets or flakes.

Reproduction

In the wild, Naso Tangs form large spawning aggregations, and their reproduction involves a spectacular display of color changes and swimming patterns. However, breeding Naso Tangs in captivity is extremely challenging and rarely successful due to their large size and complex social behaviors.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish with anemones, Naso Tangs do play a role in the reef ecosystem by grazing on algae, which helps prevent overgrowth and maintain the balance of the reef.

Habitat

Naso Tangs are found in clear, current-swept terraces of lagoon and seaward reefs. They prefer areas with robust coral growth and are commonly seen at depths ranging from 1 to 90 meters. Their natural distribution spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Ducie islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia and the Austral Islands.