Bignose unicornfish

Biology

The bignose unicornfish has a prominent snout and body covered with bright blue spots. It inhabits deep lagoons and coral reefs, where it forms small groups to feed on zooplankton.

Conservation

This species does not face serious threats, despite its conservation status, mainly because its range overlaps with several protected areas, including the Apo Island Marine Reserve in the Philippines, where fishing is strictly forbidden and where the number of bignose unicornfish individuals tripled in 18 years.

Curiosities

When frightened, the body turns mud-brown and the blue markings vanish. This camouflages it within its environment, confusing possible predators.