Spotted Unicornfish (Naso brevirostris)

This fish is commonly found near seaward reef drop-offs and along rocky shores of the Indo-Pacific: Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands. Juveniles feed on benthic algae while adults prefer zooplankton. As this fish matures, it develops the unique horn - the purpose of which is unknown.

Unicornfish are members of the surgeonfish family. Surgeonfish are usually colorful, thin bodied, and have an oval shape. They also have long continuous dorsal and anal fins and crescent tailfins. The scalpel at the base of their tailfin is very sharp and is used by the fish for protection from predators as well as a way of establishing itself among other fish. These fish are usually seen along reefs grazing on algae throughout the day.