Blonde Naso Tang (Naso elegans)
Blonde Naso Tang (Naso elegans)
Available for Local pick up only
Scientific Name: Naso lituratus
Common Name: Blonde Naso, Lipstick Tang
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Temperament: Peaceful (can be territorial with other tangs)
Reef Safe: Yes
Tank Size: 180+ gallons
Coloration: Gray body with blonde facial mask, black dorsal accents, orange lips; tail streamers develop in adults.
Placement: Open swimming areas with rockwork for grazing and shelter.
Lighting: Moderate–bright
Flow: Moderate–high
Diet: Herbivorous — feeds on nori, algae, spirulina-based foods, and occasional meaty treats.
Feeding: Daily; multiple small feedings recommended to support growth and activity.
Special Notes:
Active swimmer — needs very large tank for long-term health.
Tail streamers develop with maturity, adding elegance to the display.
Care Level: Moderate
Blonde Naso Tang
Scientific Name: Naso lituratus
Common Names: Blonde Naso Tang, Lipstick Tang
Overview
The Blonde Naso Tang is a striking, active surgeonfish known for its elongated body, blonde facial mask, and vivid orange “lipstick” markings. Highly active and constantly on the move, this species makes an impressive show fish for large, well-established reef aquariums.
Size & Appearance
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Adult Size: Up to 18 inches
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Coloration: Gray body with blonde facial area, black dorsal accents, and orange lips
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Distinct Features: Long tail streamers in mature specimens
Temperament & Compatibility
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Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be assertive
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Behavior: Best kept as a single Naso tang per tank
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Tank Mates: Large wrasses, angelfish, peaceful tangs (with space), anthias
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Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with corals
Tank Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 180+ gallons
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Tank Setup: Large open swimming areas with strong rock structures
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Preferred Zone: Open water and mid to upper levels
Lighting & Flow
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Lighting: Any reef lighting
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Water Flow: Moderate to high
Diet & Feeding
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Diet: Herbivore (with omnivorous tendencies)
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Foods:
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Nori / dried seaweed
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Spirulina-based pellets and flakes
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Mysis shrimp (occasional treat)
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Feeding Frequency: Daily, multiple small feedings preferred
Water Parameters (Recommended)
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Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F)
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Salinity: 1.025–1.026
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Stability: Very important due to size and activity level
Reef Safety
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Reef Safe: Yes
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Invertebrate Safety: Safe with all reef invertebrates
Care Level
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Care Level: Moderate
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Best For: Experienced hobbyists with large reef systems
Fun Fact
Blonde Naso Tangs develop long tail streamers as they mature, making adults even more dramatic and elegant in large display aquariums.