The Lipstick Tang, also known as the Naso Tang or Naso Literatus, is easily recognizable by its unique markings, including a bright orange stripe near its mouth that resembles lipstick, giving it its common name. This tang also has striking dark gray to bluish-gray coloring and a yellow dorsal fin. It's a beautiful and popular addition to larger reef aquariums.
Like other tangs, the Lipstick Tang has a sharp spine near the base of its tail, which it uses for defense against predators. It can grow up to 18 inches in size, so it requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space—ideally a tank of at least 180 gallons. This tang is generally peaceful and gets along well with most other fish species, but it's best not to house it with other tangs or fish of similar shape and color to avoid territorial behavior.
The Lipstick Tang thrives in reef aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing on algae, its primary food source in the wild. To keep it healthy in captivity, offer a diet that includes a mix of algae-based foods, marine seaweed, and vegetable matter, along with some frozen meaty foods for variety.
Quick Stats:
- GENUS: Naso
- CARE LVL: Moderate
- TEMPER: Peaceful
- REEF SAFE: Yes
