Vlamingi Unicorn 8-14cm

  • Graceful and striking, the Vlamingi Unicorn is known for its long, flowing dorsal fin, vibrant blue-gray body, and prominent “horn” on its forehead, making it a show-stopping addition to any large marine aquarium.
  • Thrives in well-maintained marine water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, salinity between 1.020-1.025 SG, and stable temperature around 74-80°F (23-27°C).
  • Peaceful but active, the Vlamingi Unicorn is best suited for large reef or fish-only tanks with other non-aggressive but robust tankmates like tangs, wrasses, and large angelfish.
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Introduction: The Vlamingi Unicorn, also known as the Vlamingii Tang or the Unicornfish, is a striking marine fish that belongs to the family Acanthuridae. Renowned for its impressive size, vibrant coloration, and long, prominent “unicorn” horn-like projection on its forehead, the Vlamingi Unicorn is a captivating addition to large reef aquariums. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is known for its graceful swimming and peaceful nature. While it can be a bit challenging to care for due to its size and space requirements, it is highly regarded by aquarists for its beauty and unique appearance.

Scientific Name: Naso vlamingii, commonly known as the Vlamingi Unicorn, Vlamingii Tang, or Unicornfish.

Water Quality and Temperature:

  • Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C) to replicate the warm tropical conditions of their natural habitat.
  • pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4, reflecting the slightly alkaline nature of seawater.
  • Salinity: A specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025 is ideal for the Vlamingi Unicorn.
  • KH Level: The carbonate hardness (KH) should be in the range of 8 to 12 dKH for stable water conditions.

Feeding:

  • Herbivorous Diet: The Vlamingi Unicorn is primarily herbivorous, and its diet should consist of a variety of algae, such as nori, spirulina, and other marine algae. Algae-based pellets can also be provided as a supplemental food source.
  • Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with occasional live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp or brine shrimp for protein, especially if kept with other fish in a community tank.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed the Vlamingi Unicorn several times a day in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and to ensure they receive balanced nutrition.

Tank Mates: The Vlamingi Unicorn is generally peaceful and can be kept with other reef-safe species. However, due to its size, it is best kept with larger fish that are not overly aggressive. It may exhibit some territorial behavior, particularly with other tangs or similarly shaped species, so it’s advisable to provide plenty of space for the fish to establish its territory. Suitable tank mates include large angelfish, wrasses, and other tangs. Avoid keeping them with smaller or more delicate species, as the Vlamingi Unicorn’s size and assertiveness may overwhelm them.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: The Vlamingi Unicorn requires a large tank with plenty of swimming space. A fine-gravel or sandy substrate is ideal for this species, as it allows for natural foraging and grazing. The tank should include live rock structures to provide hiding spots and grazing areas for the fish, as well as to enhance the aesthetic of the aquarium. While the Vlamingi Unicorn is not a burrowing species, having various rock formations for exploration is important for its mental stimulation and comfort.

Suitable Plants: Since the Vlamingi Unicorn is herbivorous, adding live algae or marine plants to the aquarium can be beneficial, not only for aesthetic purposes but also as a supplementary food source. Plants such as Chaetomorpha or other macroalgae can help maintain water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.

Sexing: Sexing Vlamingi Unicorns is difficult as males and females look very similar. There are no significant physical differences in coloration or size between the sexes. The long horn-like projection on the forehead is present in both genders, and it is typically not a distinguishing factor for sexing.

Breeding: Breeding Vlamingi Unicorns in captivity is rare, and little is known about their reproductive habits in home aquariums. In the wild, they are open-water spawners, and successful breeding in captivity would require very specific conditions, including a large and stable tank, appropriate water quality, and a suitable environment for the fish to feel secure enough to spawn.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Vlamingi Unicorns can grow quite large, reaching up to 15-18 inches (38-46 cm) in length, with some individuals potentially growing even larger. In captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 10 years or more, depending on the quality of their environment and diet.

General Information: The Vlamingi Unicorn is a majestic and dynamic fish, characterized by its vibrant blue body, distinct yellow tail, and the unique horn-like projection on its forehead. This species is known for its graceful swimming and social nature, often seen swimming in schools in the wild. In an aquarium setting, the Vlamingi Unicorn can become the centerpiece of a large, well-maintained reef tank, where its striking appearance will undoubtedly impress any viewer.

A Fun Fact: The “unicorn” horn of the Vlamingi Unicorn is not just for show! While it is not used as an offensive weapon, it plays a role in communication and possibly in establishing dominance over other fish. The horn is a modified spine from the fish’s dorsal fin, and although it is not venomous, it adds to the fish’s overall regal appearance.

Family

Acanthuridae

Origin

Indo-Pacific

Social

Schooling

,

Semi-Aggressive

Breeding

Egglayer

,

Rare in Captivity

Care Level

Advanced

pH Level Aquarium pH measures water acidity/alkalinity. 7 is neutral. Fish have pH preferences; maintain ideal levels for their health and stability.

8.1 – 8.4

GH Level GH (General Hardness) in aquariums measures minerals like calcium and magnesium. It affects fish health by showing water\'s mineral content.

8 – 12 dGH

KH Level KH (Carbonate Hardness) in an aquarium stabilizes pH. It acts like a shield, keeping the water conditions just right for fish.

8 – 12 dKH

Temperature Ideal temperature needed for fish

23°C – 27°C

Life Span

10+ Years

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