Spotted unicornfish

Biology

The spotted unicornfish owes its name to the extension, similar to a horn, which appears on the face of adults. That is why adults only feed on zooplankton, while juveniles scrape algae off the rocks, close to the bottom. It also exhibits two powerful spines, on each side of its body near the caudal fin. When it feels threatened, it uses those structures for defence, causing deep and painful wounds.

Conservation

This fish is very versatile because it is widespread, occupying a wide range of habitats. It occurs in marine protected areas in many parts of its range.

Curiosities

It swims in small groups but may form large schools in oceanic areas or in reefs with strong currents.