Moorish Idol

Moorish Idol

Zanclus cornutus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Moorish Idol is a strikingly beautiful marine fish known for its distinctive black, white, and yellow vertical bands and an elongated dorsal fin filament. It possesses a long, tubular snout used for feeding on a varied diet. This species is often seen alone, in pairs, or in small to large groups across tropical Indo-Pacific coral reefs and lagoons.

Max Length 23 cm
Max Weight 158 g
Lifespan 2 - 4 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 182 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour

Destinations to spot Moorish Idol

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Moorish Idol has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Moorish Idol

Where can you see the Moorish Idol?

The Moorish Idol can be seen at 29 dive destinations in 10 countries. The best spots include Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Addu Atoll (Maldives), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Apo Reef (Philippines), and Ari Atoll (Maldives).

What is the best time to see the Moorish Idol?

The Moorish Idol is most often seen at Tubbataha Reefs from March to June.

Can you see the Moorish Idol all year round?

Yes. At Abu Dabbab, Addu Atoll, Apo Reef, Ari Atoll, and Baa Atoll, the Moorish Idol is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Moorish Idol in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Moorish Idol at Addu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, North Male Atoll, and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Moorish Idol in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Moorish Idol at Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Moorish Idol in Australia?

In Australia, you can see the Moorish Idol at Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliot Island, Ningaloo reef, and Osprey Reef.

How big does the Moorish Idol get?

The Moorish Idol can reach up to 23 cm in length and 158 g in weight.

What habitat does the Moorish Idol live in?

The Moorish Idol is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Moorish Idol live?

The Moorish Idol lives from the surface down to 182 m.

What does the Moorish Idol eat?

Eats both plant and animal matter, which lets it adapt its diet to whatever the habitat offers.

When is the Moorish Idol most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Moorish Idol live?

The Moorish Idol lives 2 to 4 years.

What is the conservation status of the Moorish Idol?

The Moorish Idol is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Moorish Idol. Spotted something that looks off?

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