Oneknife Unicornfish (Naso thynnoides)

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

Oneknife Unicornfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNaso thynnoides
FamilyAcanthuridae
Also known asOneknife Unicornfish
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size28 in
Minimum tank size250 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

A large, elongated tang with a silvery-gray body and a distinctive knife-like compressed shape. Characterized by a prominent frontal protuberance (horn or knob) on the forehead, particularly pronounced in males, and subtle bluish or greenish iridescence on the gill covers.

Diet and feeding

Naturally feeds on benthic algae and small invertebrates. In captivity, offer large daily feedings of high-quality herbivorous pellets, dried seaweed (nori), and regular meaty foods including small pieces of fish, shrimp, and occasional live copepods. Supplement with vitamin-enriched preparations.

Difficulty and care for the Oneknife 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 Infections, Fungal Diseases

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from Indonesia and Philippines eastward through Micronesia and Polynesia.

Log Oneknife 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 Oneknife Unicornfish alongside everything else in your reef.