Naso Lituratus, also known as the Orangespine Unicornfish or the Bluespine Unicornfish, is a species of marine fish found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This fascinating and funny looking fish is highly sought after by aquarists due to its striking appearance, unique behavior, and vibrant coloration.
Physical Characteristics
Naso Lituratus is a medium to large-sized fish, with males growing up to 40 centimeters in length and females up to 35 centimeters. The fish has a distinctive elongated snout, which gives it its unicorn-like appearance, and a pair of sharp spines on either side of its caudal fin, hence the name “Unicornfish.” Its body is dark blue, and it has a bright orange-colored patch around the eye, hence the name “Orangespine.”
Behavior
Naso Lituratus is a diurnal fish, which means it is most active during the day. It is a social fish that often forms small groups or pairs. In the wild, it can be found in coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky areas, where it feeds on algae, plankton, and small invertebrates.
Aquarium Care
Naso Lituratus is a hardy fish that is relatively easy to care for in an aquarium setting. However, due to its size, it requires a large tank, preferably over 200 gallons, with ample swimming space and plenty of hiding places. The tank should have a good filtration system and be well-oxygenated. The fish prefers a temperature range of 75-82 degrees Fahrenheit and a pH range of 8.1-8.4.
Diet
In an aquarium, Naso Lituratus should be fed a varied diet of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods, and vegetable matter. The fish has a unique feeding behavior where it uses its elongated snout to scrape algae off rocks and other surfaces. Therefore, providing live rock and other forms of algae in the aquarium is essential to ensure its long-term health and well-being.
Breeding
Breeding Naso Lituratus in captivity is challenging due to its complex reproductive behavior. In the wild, the fish forms harems consisting of one male and several females. The male displays courtship behavior, such as circling around the females, extending his fins, and changing his coloration to attract a mate. However, replicating this behavior in captivity is challenging due to the large size of the aquarium required and the difficulty in obtaining a breeding pair.
Final Thought
The Naso Lituratus is a stunning and unique fish that is highly prized by aquarists. Its striking appearance, unique feeding behavior, and relatively easy care make it a popular choice for those looking for a challenging and rewarding addition to their aquarium. However, due to its size, it requires a large tank and careful consideration before being added to any aquarium. With proper care and attention, Naso Lituratus can thrive in captivity and provide years of enjoyment and fascination for its owners.