Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus)

The Naso Tang, also known as the Lipstick Tang or Orange-Spine Unicornfish, is a beautiful and active species popular among marine aquarists for its striking coloration and peaceful demeanor. With its grayish-blue body, bold orange markings around its lips, and yellow dorsal and caudal fins, this fish is a standout in any aquarium. The Naso Tang is known for its constant swimming and graceful movements, making it an ideal addition to larger tanks.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 18 inches.
• Tank Size: 180 gallons minimum; due to its large size and need for extensive swimming space, a spacious tank is essential.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and requires a diet rich in marine-based seaweed, algae, and high-quality herbivore pellets. Supplementing with fresh greens such as nori is beneficial for maintaining their health.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Generally peaceful, but may become territorial towards other tangs, especially in smaller tanks. It is best kept in large tanks with peaceful tankmates.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; requires a stable environment and a diet rich in algae to thrive.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and is excellent for controlling algae growth in reef tanks.

Special Requirement - Ample Swimming Space
The Naso Tang is a highly active swimmer and requires a large tank with plenty of open swimming areas. Due to its potential size and active nature, it is best suited for large, well-established tanks.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Naso Tang displays a grayish-blue body with bold orange markings around its mouth, giving it the nickname "Lipstick Tang." It also features yellow or orange dorsal and caudal fins with striking black accents​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Naso Tang is found in coral reefs throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Hawaiian Islands, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It is commonly seen grazing on algae along reef slopes and rocky areas​.