Moorish Idol Fish– The Moorish Idol, (Zanclus cornutus) is a deep-bodied tropical and subtropical reef fish that is placed alone in the Zanclidae family. The Moorish Idol is an attractive looking fish and is therefore commonly kept in aquariums. The fish is slender, deeper than it is tall, with a prominent, beak-like mouth and a prominent front and upper fins. This Indo-Pacific region fish is mostly found in relatively shallow waters. In terms of size, it is about 18 cm (7 in) long and has a bold pattern of three vertical black stripes on a yellow body.
Emu Bird Scientific Name, Class, Identification and Habit, Diet, Life Span
Scientific Name and Information of Moorish Idol
- Kingdom- Animalia
- Phylum- Chordata
- Class- Actinopterygii
- Order- Acanthuriformes
- Sub Order- Acanthuroidei
- Family- Zanclidae
- Genus- Zanclus
- Species- Z. Carnutus
Description of Moorish Idol Fish
The most commonly found Moorish Idol fish (Zanclus cornutus) is one of the most beautiful fish found in the warm, tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. These attractive Moorish Idol fish can be seen swimming around coral reefs, lagoons and coastal areas and they prefer to live in areas with strong water currents and abundant coral formations, where these fish find their natural habitat.
| Continents | Indo-Pacific Region |
| Sub Continents | South Africa to Somalia |
| Countries | Somalia, South Africa, California, Peru, Galapagos |
Body Structure of Moorish Idol
Their report shows that the Moorish Idol fish (Zanclus cornutus) has a highly compressed, disc-shaped body with a tube-like snout and small bony projections over the eyes in adult fish. The mouth of this Moorish Idol fish is small and has many bristle-like teeth. It is also observed that there are no spines or serrations on the preoperculum or caudal peduncle.
Habitat and Diet
Commonly known as the Moorish Idol (Zanclus cornutus), it is an attractive marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. Here are some key facts about it:
01. Habitat:
- Moorish Idols are fish that can be found in tropical oceans around the world and prefer to live in shallow waters within coral reef ecosystems.
- These fishes are commonly found in flat rocks in the Great Barrier Reef and other areas. This nature makes these fishes attractive and unique.
02. Diet:
These Moorish idol fish are generally omnivorous-
- Algae
- Small crustaceans
- Brine Shrimp
- Coral Reef Vegetation
The vibrant appearance and unique characteristics of these fish make them an attractive species of fish.
Behaviour
As the Moorish Idol fish (Zanclus cornutus) is one of the most attractive marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region, some of its behaviours are as follows-
01. Solitary or Pairs:
- Moorish Idols are most often seen alone, although they can sometimes be seen in pairs or occasionally in small groups, especially when they are in their juvenile stages.
- Moorish Idol fish usually prefer to stay at the bottom of the reef at night and adopt a dull coloration.
02. Diurnal Behaviour:
- These fishes are generally diurnal in nature, that is, they remain active during the day and wander around and look for their food.
- When night falls, these fish rest at the bottom of the rocks.
03. Mate For Life:
- These Moorish Idol fish stay with each other throughout their lives.
- Adult males of this species of fish are capable of displaying aggression towards each other to protect their mates.
03. Shyness and sensitivity:
- Moorish Idol fish can be shy and extremely sensitive to water quality.
- Usually these fish are peace loving, but if they feel threatened then they are capable of attacking other fish.
Life Span of Moorish Idol Fish
The lifespan of the Moorish Idol (Zanclus cornutus) is usually around 2 to 4 years in the open sea. However, with proper care in a well-maintained aquarium, these fish can live up to 5 years. But make sure that their adaptation and nutritional needs are met or else their longevity can be affected.
Interesting Facts About Moorish Idol Fish
- The Moorish Idol fish has a highly compressed, disc-like body with a tube-like snout.
- These fish prefer to inhabit the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Southeast Asia.
- Moorish idols are omnivorous eaters, feeding on a variety of organisms and things such as small invertebrates, algae, and zooplankton.
- These fishes exhibit continuous swimming movements and rest only occasionally.
- Moorish idols stay with their partners for life.
- When they sense danger, they can quickly change their colour pattern to defend themselves and attack.
- Moorish Idols Fish are considered sacred in Hawaiian folklore and are believed to bring good luck.
- The name “Moorish idol fish” actually originated from a misunderstanding. They were revered by fishermen in Southeast Asia, and were mistakenly associated with the Amazigh people of Morocco. Since then, these fish have been called Moorish idols.
Reference:- Wikipedia