Fin's Fish Guide
The Barcheek unicornfish (Naso lituratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 46 cm.
Western and central Pacific; coral, rock and rubble areas of lagoon and seaward reefs.
Description
The orangespine unicornfish is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae from the western and central Pacific (the Indian Ocean form is the related species Naso elegans). The species grows to about 46 cm and has a grey-brown body with a yellow dorsal fin, black facial markings and orange lips; unlike many unicornfishes it has no horn on the forehead. It inhabits areas of coral, rock and rubble of lagoon and seaward reefs. As a herbivore it grazes mainly brown algae. On each side of the tail base it bears two fixed, orange-rimmed plate spines that act as sharp blades; never grab the fish by the tail, as they can give deep cuts.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barcheek unicornfish?
The Barcheek unicornfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Two fixed, orange-rimmed plate spines on the caudal peduncle like sharp knives; no forehead horn.
Where does the Barcheek unicornfish live?
The Barcheek unicornfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western and central Pacific; coral, rock and rubble areas of lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Barcheek unicornfish get?
The Barcheek unicornfish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Barcheek unicornfish dangerous to humans?
The Barcheek unicornfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. On each side of the tail base are sharp, fixed plate-like spines that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for a deep or infected wound.
Is the Barcheek unicornfish edible?
The Barcheek unicornfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Naso
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Barcheek unicornfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barcheek unicornfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.