Moorish idol - Zanclidae
MOORISH IDOL - ZANCLIDAE
The Zanclidae family exists out of only one species. They are always on the move and very common on healthy reefs with an abundance of sponges. With their thin disc-shaped body, typical pattern and colors, they are easy to confuse with bannerfish (Heniochus sp.). Moorish Idols have the yellow saddle on the snout, a longer filamentous dorsal fin and a black tail fin. They swim alone or in groups and are always in search for food. Moorish idols dine on algae, small benthic invertebrates and their favorite dish, sponges. Because of their long beaks, they are able to look for food in small narrow places. Around sunset they swim in pairs towards the surface to mate. The larvae spend a long time living pelagic and become well spread. Length: 16 cm.
Distribution: E- Africa to SW- Japan, Galapagos, Mexico, Hawaii, Polynesia and G.B.R. Very easy to determine because they are one of a kind. White body with long dorsal fin filament. Body has 2 wide black bands and yellow area on rear body, tail fin with 1 wide black band and white-blue margin. Black-bordered yellow saddle on long snout. Solitary, in pairs or groups in lagoons, around seaward rock or coral reefs to -180 m.