Naso hexacanthus

Datasheet

General Description

The Sleek unicornfish, scientifically known as Naso hexacanthus, belongs to the Acanthuridae family and is native to the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea to East Africa and extending to various islands in the Pacific. These fish are characterized by their large size, with adults reaching up to 75cm in length, and their need for substantial swimming space to thrive.

Aquarium Suitability

Sleek unicornfish, like other Surgeonfish, are not suitable for a typical home aquarium due to their extensive space requirements as they grow. They are peaceful towards other species but may display aggression towards similar species, necessitating caution when selecting tank mates.

Demands

The Sleek unicornfish prefer well-established aquariums with abundant algae growth on rocks and stones for grazing. Adequate hiding places should be provided, such as between live rocks, to ensure the fish feels secure in its environment. It is essential to prioritize algae-based nutrition to maintain the fish's health and immune system.

Care and Hardiness

Information on the hardiness of Sleek unicornfish is not specified. When introducing these fish to a new tank, it is essential to select active, healthy individuals that display normal behavior and are not excessively thin. Monitoring their feeding behavior in the initial stages is crucial for their acclimatization.

Reef Suitability

Sleek unicornfish are considered reef safe and generally do not pose a threat to corals or invertebrates within a reef setting. However, caution is advised when housing them alongside large Palettes or Blue tangs, as these species could potentially disturb the reef environment.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Sleek unicornfish involves ensuring a spacious environment with ample hiding spots and live rock structures. Maintaining a healthy algae population on the rocks is crucial, supplemented by feeding algae-rich foods like seaweed or spirulina to meet their dietary needs effectively.

Behaviour

In their natural habitat, Sleek unicornfish spend most of their time swimming and grazing on algae-covered surfaces. They are generally peaceful but establishing a hierarchy when kept in groups. Individuals may scratch acrylic or glass surfaces with their scalpel, especially as they grow larger.

Feeding and Diet

The primary diet of Sleek unicornfish consists of small crustaceans, including krill, mysis, and artemia. To replicate their natural feeding habits, it is essential to provide algae-based foods like seaweed and spirulina, ensuring a well-rounded and nutritious diet to sustain their health.

Habitat and Distribution

These fish are found in the Red Sea and East Africa, extending to islands in the Pacific Ocean such as the Mascarene Islands and Hawaiian Islands. Their distribution ranges from southern Japan to Lord Howe Island, showcasing their wide presence in the Indo-Pacific marine regions.