
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Naso lituratus
A large unicornfish with two pairs of orange hooked spines on the tail base. Black face mask, orange lips and a black band on the dorsal fin; adults exceed 40cm. Needs strong flow and high oxygen.
The Naso Tang (Naso lituratus) is a unicornfish found across the Pacific from southern Japan to the Great Barrier Reef, Hawaii and French Polynesia. A closely related species, N. elegans, occupies the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, and this species is confined to the Pacific. The body is brown to blue-grey with a yellowish belly; a black mask from eye to mouth is edged in yellow and the lips are orange. Two sharp, forward-hooked orange spines sit on each side of the tail base, so handle with care. FishBase records a maximum of 46cm (standard length); it usually lives at 5-30m and feeds mainly on leafy brown algae such as Sargassum. Adults form small groups. In captivity it needs a tank of 680L or more, strong flow, high oxygen and a secure lid. Feed seaweed-based foods daily. It is aggressive toward other tangs but peaceful with other families, and does not harm corals. Hawaiian fish are prized for their bright colour.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Naso Tang grows to Up to 46cm.
The ideal temperature for the Naso Tang is 22〜26℃.
Origin
Pacific Ocean (southern Japan to the Great Barrier Reef, Hawaii, French Polynesia and Pitcairn)
Size
Up to 46cm
Temperature
22〜26℃
Sources: LiveAquaria / FishBase
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Seaweed (brown algae), algae-based pellets, dried nori
The orange tail-base spines are sharp and can cut nets and hands. Prone to marine ich; quarantine and stable water are essential. Grows fast.
A tank of 680L or more is recommended, with open swimming space, strong flow, hiding places and a secure lid.
22-26C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Keep oxygen high.
Herbivore that favours brown algae. Offer dried seaweed daily, supplemented with algae pellets and frozen foods.
Aggressive toward other tangs but peaceful with other families. Safe with corals and invertebrates.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Naso Tang is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Naso Tang typically reaches Up to 46cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Naso Tang feeds on: Seaweed (brown algae), algae-based pellets, dried nori. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Naso Tang varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026