The Naso Tang (Naso lituratus), also known as the lipstick tang, naso unicornfish or sleek unicornfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It is found in the Pacific Ocean and is one of the most popular marine aquarium fish.

Physical Description

The Naso Tang has an elongated oval body with a pointed snout. Adults develop a horn-like projection on the forehead. The body coloration is greyish-brown with a yellow dorsal fin, orange anal and pelvic fins, and distinctive orange lips. The caudal fin has a yellow margin with elongated filaments in mature males. The dorsal fin has 5-6 spines and 28-31 soft rays while the anal fin has 2 spines and 28-31 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum total length of 45 cm (17.7 in).

Distribution and Habitat

The Naso Tang is found in the Pacific Ocean from Hawaii to Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and seaward slopes at depths between 2 and 30 meters.

Diet and Feeding

The Naso Tang is primarily herbivorous, feeding on benthic algae and leafy macroalgae. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, spirulina, and high-quality vegetable-based preparations.

Aquarium Care

The Naso Tang requires a spacious aquarium of at least 200 gallons with excellent water quality and strong water flow. It is generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. Generally considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.