Spotted Unicornfish (Naso brevirostris)

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

Quick facts

Scientific nameNaso brevirostris

FamilyAcanthuridae

Also known asPaletail Unicornfish

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size24 in

Minimum tank size250 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

Elongated body with a small snout and distinctive horn-like protuberance above the mouth in adults. Gray-brown to olive coloration with numerous blue spots covering the head and body, and bright blue rings around the eyes.

Diet and feeding

In captivity, feed high-quality marine herbivore pellets, dried nori, spirulina, and varied meaty foods including mysis shrimp and chopped fish. Feed 1–2 times daily, offering portions the fish can consume in a few minutes.

Difficulty and care for the Spotted 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

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and the Tuamotu Archipelago, found in reef environments from 15 to 200 meters depth.

Log Spotted 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 Spotted Unicornfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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