Bluespine unicornfish (Naso unicornis) is a saltwater species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 0–180 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia runs all year.
Scientific name: Naso unicornis · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 70 cm
The bluespine unicornfish is an acanthurid that can live 55 years - remarkable for a reef fish that commonly runs about 50 cm, and the reason its populations recover very slowly, with a fishing vulnerability of 32 out of 100. Adults work channels, moats, lagoons and surge-swept seaward reefs, usually in small groups and sometimes alone; juveniles keep to shallow, sheltered bays and harbours. It is mainly diurnal and feeds on coarse leafy brown algae such as Sargassum, and pair-spawning has been observed. Maximum about 70 cm fork length. Medium priced, and found all year.
Caution: large individuals carry a ciguatera risk. Heat, cold and marinating do not remove the toxin, which concentrates in the liver, roe and head, so avoid eating those parts. Seek medical help if numbness, tingling or a reversed sense of hot and cold follows a meal.
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