Spotted Unicornfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and French Polynesia. Inhabits seaward reef slopes.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Acanthuridae. Features a deep, compressed body. Reaches a maximum standard length of 60 cm. Revelops a long forehead horn as it matures.

Social Behavior: Peaceful species, schooling in open water above reefs in nature. Requires high oxygen levels and strong water current in the aquarium.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Light grey-blue or olive base color, densely covered with small dark spots on the body. Features two caudal spines on each side of the tail base.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a massive aquarium of at least 1200 liters with extensive open swimming areas and a secure lid to prevent jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Herbivorous. Feeds on zooplankton when young, transitioning to macroalgae as an adult. Provide dried seaweed (Nori), spirulina, and mysis.

Water Quality: Maintain stable marine parameters: temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and strong water flow.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Generally peaceful toward community reef fish. May show territorial aggression toward other large surgeonfishes of similar shape.

Aquarium Breeding: Breeding in captivity has not been achieved. In nature, they spawn in groups, releasing pelagic eggs into ocean currents.

Risks and Diseases: Highly susceptible to skin parasites such as Marine Ich and velvet if stressed. Keeping water quality pristine is crucial for health.