NASO ?????

[skeeter1]

I am looking to add a Naso Tang to my existing reef tank and would appreciate info concerning differences in the Naso. I have seen several different Tangs at the LFS and they vary in color markings. Some have very distinct markings and others do not. Most of the tangs that seem to be lacking in color are smaller fish, DO they increase in color intensity as they mature or is there a difference in species?? any advice welcome

 

[sillingw]

The Naso Tang is one of the exceptions that actually gets better looking as it gets older, juveniles are quite drab, so your observation was correct.

 

[bezzer]

Naso Tangs (Lipstick tangs) do get more vibrant colors as they mature.
I believe the more brilliantly colored Nasos are from the Red Sea and Hawaii and at some LFS they are called a "Blonde Naso Tang".
I'm not a 100% on this but I think the male Naso grows those beatiful streamers off their tail fins. What a gorgeous fish!?!
I would love to have a Naso Tang in my tank but they get so big I'd have to upgrade to a 125 or more.
HTH
Brian

 

[SteveP]

bezzer's right. If you get a naso you should have a 125 or bigger. They like to swim and need a lot of room or else they get stressed.

Steve
8{I

 

[Anonymous]

The males have the caudial fin trailers, the females do not.
Jim

 

[Super Len]

Another idea to consider is that Naso is a genus. Any species under that genus may be described as a Naso Tang, which could account for the variation of fishes you've observed sold as "Naso Tang."

BTW, Naso lituratus is the most common species imported, and generally is the one referred to as "Naso Tang." This species all share similiar color and patterns, but there are definately variants between specimens (although N.lituratus is pretty distinguishable from other Naso sp.).

And the suggestion of a large tank is dead on. I say no smaller then a 5' tank, preferably 6'. 100-125 min. All Nasos get BIG.

 

[skeeter1]

The one I'm looking at is a juvanile (approx 2.5 - 3 inches) It seems quite healthy and active, and it's eating flake food. Main reason of concern was that its colors were not real vibrant, lips slightly orange and yellow on head not real deep. It will be going in a 160 gal reef. thanks for the help so far, any additional comments welcome

 

[naesco]

Skeeter your 160 will take a Naso.
Pass on this Naso. You will find another easily This can be an iffy tang to keep.
IMO wait until you find one that is colourful. It should be eating agressively. It must be plump; no thinning. Its eyes should be clear and alert. It should be just as interested in you as you are in it.
No tears, spots, marks etc. on its body.

 

[naesco]

What is the size of your tank?
What is the name of the naso you were looking at?