Moorish Idol

Overview

The Moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus) is a striking marine fish found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. It stands as the sole living representative of its family, the Zanclidae, and its monospecific genus. Highly recognizable on reefs, this species has long captured the attention of divers and aquarists alike.

Appearance

This species features a strongly compressed, disc-like body patterned with bold vertical bands of white, yellow, and black. A prominent tubular snout extends forward, and adults develop small bony horns or projections directly above their eyes. The third dorsal fin spine extends into a dramatic, elongated white filament that flows behind the fish as it swims.

Feeding

Dietary habits primarily consist of benthic invertebrates, including sponges, tunicates, and corals, alongside various microalgae. Their slender, specialized snout and small mouth allow them to probe deeply into coral crevices to extract these food sources.