Blue Unicorn Tang

Also known as the Spotted Unicornfish or Short-Nose Unicorn Tang.
The Blue Unicorn Tang is a striking, elegant reef fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its powder-blue body, elongated shape, and signature “nasal bump” that develops with age, this species is a graceful swimmer and an eye-catching centerpiece in large aquariums. Hardy, peaceful, and captivating in motion, it is a favorite for advanced hobbyists who can provide ample space and proper care.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Naso brevirostris
Common Names: Blue Unicorn Tang, Spotted Unicornfish, Short-Nose Unicorn Tang
Adult Size: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
Lifespan: 15–30+ years with proper care
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; generally peaceful but may establish dominance around similar tangs
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe, will not harm corals or invertebrates
Minimum Tank Size: 360 gallons
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced, requires space, strong water flow, and stable water parameters

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Found on outer reef slopes and coastal reefs at depths of 10–100 feet, often swimming in small groups while grazing on algae.

Tank Environment:

• Large open swimming space is essential
• Strong water movement and high oxygen levels
• Ample live rock for grazing
• Secure lids to prevent jumping

Mature, stable system preferred

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Essential Equipment:

• Oversized protein skimmer
• Strong circulation pumps
• High-capacity biological filtration
• Auto top-off system
• UV sterilizer recommended

Diet & Feeding

Blue Unicorn Tangs are primarily herbivores with a high metabolism, requiring constant grazing and nutrient-rich diets.

Recommended Foods:

• Dried nori (daily)
• Spirulina-based pellets and flakes
• Frozen herbivore blends
• Macroalgae (red, green, brown)
• Occasional mysis or brine shrimp for variety

Enrichment:

• Vitamin-soaked foods
• Marine algae sheets clipped in tank
• Multiple feeding stations for grazing

Feeding Schedule:

• 2–3 times daily
• Small portions that can be consumed in 2–3 minutes

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:

• Active swimmer, constantly grazing
• Semi-aggressive but usually peaceful
• May show dominance with similar tangs

Tank Mates:
Compatible with: Anthias, fairy wrasses, gobies, chromis, large angels, peaceful tangs
Caution with: Other unicornfish, aggressive tangs
Avoid: Small timid fish, predatory groupers

Pairing Behavior:

• Can be kept singly or in small groups if tank is large
• Generally social with non-aggressive species
• Established pairs may bond and show grazing synchronization

Reef Compatibility:

• Reef-safe
• Does not nip corals
• Helps control algae growth

Acclimation & Care Tips

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimation for 45–60 minutes
• Float bag for temperature equalization
• Dim lights during introduction
• Provide ample open space

Health Considerations:

• Prone to ich and velvet if stressed
• Requires constant grazing and high oxygen
• Quarantine is recommended for new additions

Signs of a Healthy Specimen:

• Constant swimming and grazing
• Bright eyes, smooth skin
• Strong appetite
• No flashing or scratching

Color & Development

Coloration Characteristics:

• Body: Powder-blue to slate-gray
• Fins: Transparent to bluish-gray
• Nasal bump develops with age
• Tail: Long and elegant

Color Intensity:

• High-quality diet maintains vibrant blue
• Proper lighting enhances natural tones
• Stress or poor water quality may dull color

Size & Growth:

• Rapid growth in first 2–3 years
• Juveniles start at 4–6 inches
• Full adult size: 18–24 inches

Special Considerations

Space & Flow: Essential for swimming and health; small tanks cause stress
Diet & Grazing: Needs constant algae and herbivore nutrition
Captive Behavior: Gentle, active, and visually stunning
Not Ideal for Small Tanks: Requires large open areas even as juveniles

Breeding Potential:
Though rarely bred in home aquariums, established pairs may display courtship and bonding behaviors in large, stable systems, offering hobbyists a glimpse into their natural reproductive behavior.

Why Choose a Quarantined Blue Unicorn Tang?

A properly quarantined Blue Unicorn Tang ensures a healthy, stress-free, and vibrant specimen ready to thrive in large marine aquariums. Our quarantine protocol includes health observation, preventative treatment when necessary, dietary conditioning, and acclimation, providing confidence that your new tang will grow, graze, and flourish in its new home.