Surgeonfishes
Elegant unicornfish (Naso elegans)
The Elegant unicornfish (Naso elegans) belongs to the family Acanthuridae (surgeonfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a herbivore and usually seen in small groups. It reaches about 35 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Naso elegans |
|---|---|
| Family | Surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce unicorno elegante |
| Common name (EN) | Elegant unicornfish |
| Maximum size | 35 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Elegant unicornfish belong to?
- The Elegant unicornfish (Naso elegans) belongs to the family Acanthuridae (surgeonfishes).
- Is the Elegant unicornfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Elegant unicornfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Elegant unicornfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 35 cm.
Explore the Elegant unicornfish in 3D in the interactive atlas →