Other Saltwater
Moorish Idol
Zanclus cornutus
SaltwaterZanclidaeLeast Concern
About
The Moorish Idol is a striking reef fish characterized by its dramatically compressed body, long, flowing dorsal fin filament, and distinctive black, white, and yellow/orange bands. They are known for their meticulous grazing habits, often picking at algae and small invertebrates in hard-to-reach crevices.
- Average size
- Up to 9 inches (23 cm)
- Colors
- Black, white, and yellow/orange
- Diet
- Algae, sponges, tunicates, and small invertebrates
- Region
- Not found in the US, but found in the Indo-Pacific region, including Hawaii and Southern California as introduced species.