Bulbnose Unicornfish (Naso tonganus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Expert care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Naso tonganus is a large, elongated tang with a uniform gray-brown to olive-brown body. It is distinguished by a bulbous projection on the forehead and a characteristic bulging snout, which give rise to its common name. The caudal fin is deeply forked and may display yellow or orange coloring.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied diet of high-quality herbivore pellets, nori sheets, and meaty foods such as mysis shrimp or finely chopped squid. Offer multiple small meals daily to support its active metabolism.
Difficulty and care for the Bulbnose Unicornfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial septicemia, Parasitic infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Great Barrier Reef to the Philippines and Indonesia, with records from Hawaiian Islands.
Log Bulbnose Unicornfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bulbnose Unicornfish alongside everything else in your reef.