Elegant Unicornfish (Naso elegans)

Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Elegant Unicornfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNaso elegans
FamilyAcanthuridae
Also known asBlonde Naso Tang
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size24 in
Minimum tank size300 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 74-82°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Elegant Unicornfish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with silvery-blue coloration becoming darker on the dorsal surface. It displays a distinctive long snout and a bony protuberance (horn) on the forehead that becomes more prominent with age, particularly in males.

Diet and feeding

Zooplankton, small fish, marine algae

Difficulty and care for the Elegant 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 Disease, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii, including East Africa, the Great Barrier Reef, and throughout Oceania.

Log Elegant 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 Elegant Unicornfish alongside everything else in your reef.