• English Name : Orange spine unicornfish
  • Local Name : Ran geri
  • Size : Max. 45 cm
  • Family : ACANTHURIDAE
  • Order : Perciformes
  • Distinctive Characters: Dorsal fin with 6 spines and 27-30 rays. Anal fin with 2 spines and 28-30 rays. Pectoral rays 16-17. Body depth varying from 2.0-2.4 in standard length (subadults deeper-bodied). No bumps or protuberances on snout or forehead. Two pairs of sharp keels on slender caudal peduncle.
  • Colour: Brown with a curved yellow band on snout, bright orange caudal spines and a large orange-yellow dorsal fin.
  • Habitat and Biology: Occurs in shallow water and is closely tied to coral reefs. Usually solitary. Feeds primarily on benthic algae.
  • Distribution: Indo-Pacific.
  • Remarks: Naso lituratus is one of the most beautiful of Maldivian reef fishes, with its very smart grey and orange colouration. The presence of a large orange-yellow dorsal fin and a black band in caudal fin is typical for Indian Ocean specimens. Of great interest among aquarists and divers.
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Biodiversity of Maldives
Biodiversity of Maldives