Small Unicornfish (Naso minor)

Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Small Unicornfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNaso minor
FamilyAcanthuridae
Also known asBlackspine Unicornfish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size20 in
Minimum tank size180 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Small Unicornfish have a pale silvery-gray body with subtle yellow or olive tones, and a distinctive small horn-like rostral protrusion on the forehead (more prominent in males). The body is moderately compressed and streamlined for reef navigation.

Diet and feeding

Marine algae, krill, small fish, shrimp, mysid shrimp

Difficulty and care for the Small 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, Hole-in-the-head disease, Columnaris disease

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from East Africa and the Red Sea to Hawaii and French Polynesia, typically found on coral reef slopes and drop-offs.

Log Small 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 Small Unicornfish alongside everything else in your reef.