Fin's Fish Guide
The Humpnose unicornfish (Naso tuberosus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Africa: Australia, Guam, India, Mauritius, Mozambique, Palau and others
Description
The humpnose unicornfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a deep, grey-brown body with a conspicuous fleshy bump on the snout in adults. On the tail base it carries two pairs of sharp, scalpel-like bony keels. As a reef-dweller it grazes weed and leafy algae from rocky and coral bottoms. The tail keels can cause deep cuts when handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Humpnose unicornfish?
The Humpnose unicornfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Humpnose unicornfish live?
The Humpnose unicornfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Australia, Guam, India, Mauritius, Mozambique, Palau and others
How big does the Humpnose unicornfish get?
The Humpnose unicornfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Humpnose unicornfish dangerous to humans?
The Humpnose unicornfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not grab the fish by the tail: surgeonfishes carry sharp, scalpel-like bony plates on the tail base that can cause deep cuts. For a cut: clean, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
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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 Humpnose unicornfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Humpnose unicornfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.