Rudderfish - Kyphosidae
RUDDERFISH - KYPHOSIDAE
Not much is known about this fish family. They are very common on outer reefs and shallow lagoons where they swim around in small groups. Rudderfish feed on almost everything but prefers carpets of algae which float on the surface. They are often seen swimming around dive boats, waiting for some "you never know what" food rests. Length: 60 cm.
Distribution: from the Red Sea to French Polynesia, Marianas, S- Africa and Rapa Is. Copper coloured moustache and lining on body. Very fine black margin on fins.
Swims in group in holes and under ledges, sometimes seen in harbours.
Prefers lagoons and coastal reefs from 1 to -30 m.
They are omnivores but mostly feed on algae.