Fin's Fish Guide
The Oneknife unicornfish (Naso thynnoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The oneknife unicornfish is a surgeonfish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined, grey-blue body with fine cross-lines and, unlike some relatives, no forehead horn. On each side of the tail base it bears sharp bony keel plates that can cause cuts. It forms schools above outer reefs and eats zooplankton. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oneknife unicornfish?
The Oneknife unicornfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Sharp bony keeled plates on the caudal peduncle; plankton-eating schooling fish
Where does the Oneknife unicornfish live?
The Oneknife unicornfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Oneknife unicornfish get?
The Oneknife unicornfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Oneknife unicornfish dangerous to humans?
The Oneknife unicornfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The bony keel plates on the tail base are sharp and can cause deep cuts. Handle the fish with care; clean and disinfect any wound and seek medical help for a deep cut.
Is the Oneknife unicornfish edible?
Yes, the Oneknife unicornfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Oneknife unicornfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Oneknife unicornfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.