Orangespine Unicornfish
Naso lituratus
Reef surgeonfish with bright orange tail-spine blades; grazes algae in mid-water schools.
Family
Acanthuridae
Avg Size
40-45 cm
Habitat
The orangespine unicornfish inhabits the East Indian and Pacific Oceans, including the waters of the Great Barrier Reef and Hawaii, living mainly on the coral reefs of those regions. As with all surgeonfishes, the sexes are separate and fixed for life, and males and females also differ noticeably in size; in populations near Guam, spawning takes place throughout the year. The species requires well-oxygenated water, strong currents, companions, and abundant wild algae to graze, and defends itself by extending the sharp spines on its tail to strike at approaching predators.
Where & When to See It
No dive-site records found for this species yet.