Fin's Fish Guide
The Squarenose unicornfish (Naso mcdadei) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 75 cm.
Asia: Australia, Indonesia, Maldives, Mauritius, Philippines, South Africa and others
Description
The squarenose unicornfish is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 75 cm and has a deep, grey-blue body with an angular, square snout without a true horn. On the tail base it carries two pairs of sharp, scalpel-like bony keels. As a reef-dweller it hovers above deeper reef slopes and grazes weed and picks zooplankton. The tail keels can cause deep cuts when handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Squarenose unicornfish?
The Squarenose unicornfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Squarenose unicornfish live?
The Squarenose unicornfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Indonesia, Maldives, Mauritius, Philippines, South Africa and others
How big does the Squarenose unicornfish get?
The Squarenose unicornfish grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the Squarenose unicornfish dangerous to humans?
The Squarenose 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.
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 Squarenose unicornfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Squarenose unicornfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.