Elongate unicornfish
📖 Overview
Inhabits coastal to outer reef slopes subject to strong currents. Sometimes in large schools . Generally uncommon species found in steep outer reef drop-offs . Usually found in waters deeper than 6 m. Feeds on zooplanktons . Solitary or in groups .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 27 - 30; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 26 - 30. Lacks a horn, has numerous black close-set spots on the upper half of its body and tail, and is white ventrally. Body elongate, its depth 3.3 to 3.7 times in SL (Ref 9808). : fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Elongate unicornfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 20 - 50 m . Tropical; 30°N - 12°S recorded from Tonga (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
zooplanktons (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Elongate unicornfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.8 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 127 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Elongate unicornfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Elongate unicornfish.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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