Zanclus cornutus, sometimes referred to as Z. canescens, is a schoaling fish commonly known as the Moorish Idol. They originate from the tropical Indo-Pacific along the coasts of Hawaii, Mexico and Africa.

Their bodies are tall and round, their snouts being very elongated. The fish has alternating vertical bands of black, white and yellow that run the length of the body. All fins are short and blunt save the dorsal which is very long and slender, though this feature shrinks with age.

Moorish Idols are closely related to Surgeonfish, however the trademark scalpels occur only in front of the eyes. These fish are not recommended for the beginning aquarist.

Tank Setup

Moorish Idols are shy fish needing a spacious aquarium to feel at home in. These fish are relatively peaceful but may be quarrelsome towards its own kind, even while schooling. In their natural habitat they live in turbid inner lagoons, reef flats and clear seaward reefs.

Feeding

The main food source for Z. cornutus is sponges. It will also graze on algae using its long snout to scrape along the coral. In the aquarium feed your Moorish Idol vegetable matter such as algae as well as small crustaceans and meaty foods. They are not picky eaters.

Water Chemistry

The fish should be kept in water of high quality, with frequent water changes made. Keep the pH high, around 8.4, and the salinity between 1.023 and 1.025.

Breeding

Breeding and sexing information has not been reported.