Bulbnose Unicornfish (Naso tonganus)

Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Expert care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Bulbnose Unicornfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNaso tonganus
FamilyAcanthuridae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size24 in
Minimum tank size180 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

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.