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Lipstick tang

Naso literatus

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Fun Facts

This species has only been spotted in Florida waters twice, once in 2000 and again in 2018. 

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Lipstick tang

Size:

These fish can grow up to 16 inches (40 centimeters) long.

Diet:

Blonde naso tangs eat benthic algae.

Range & Habitat:

In the western Pacific and Indian Oceans, blonde naso tangs inhabit coral reef communities and rocky bottom areas.

Details:

Blonde naso tangs range in color from pale gray to dark charcoal. Their sharp, retractable spines act as natural defenses against predators. They have two bright orange spots at the base of their tail, black pectoral fins and yellow lips. They primarily feed on algae, helping to keep coral reefs clean.