Naso Tang (Blonde)

Naso Tang (Blonde) (Naso Elagens)

The Blonde Naso Tang, or Naso elegans, is also known as the Elegant Tang or Orangespine Unicornfish, named for the distinctive bright orange spines flanking its caudal peduncle. This species features an elongated body with a narrow caudal peduncle, setting it apart from other Acanthurids. Unlike some Unicornfish, it does not develop a protruding horn. Its coloration is primarily grayish brown, accented by a vivid yellow stripe extending from the mouth to the eye. The snout and area in front of this stripe are black, while the lips are a striking orange, resembling lipstick. Above the eyes, a pale-yellow stripe continues onto the dorsal fin, complemented by a narrow black stripe edged with bold white. The ventral and anal fins are dusky, with all three fins sporting thin white margins. Mature males develop beautiful, elongated filaments or streamers from their caudal fin corners. Like all Naso species, they can rapidly change coloration based on mood or environment, often becoming almost black with gray patches when excited or hiding.