Glossary:
The Moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus) might be striking to look at, but this fish is best suited for expert aquarists. It’s also among the priciest options available. However, this fish can be a great contribution to a tank with the right care.
Here you’ll learn more about this species and how to properly care for a Moorish idol.
Put simply, no, the Moorish idol isn’t reef-safe. They frequently eat zoanthus corals and aren’t great for keeping around invertebrates, whether you have corals, sponges, or tunicates. So, if you have a reef tank, it’s best to steer clear of this fish.
The Moorish idol prefers a lot of tunicates, sponges, and algae. You can also feed them a lot of other foods, including scallops, clams, nori, Mysis shrimp, and white or blackworms, along with pellets or flakes. However, this fish is a voracious eater and needs plenty of food to keep up with its high metabolism. To keep these fish healthy and satisfied, you’ll need to feed it multiple times during the day.
To ensure your Moorish idol flourishes in your tank, you must meet certain requirements for this species. For example, you will need a large tank of at least 200 gallons, and you’ll want to keep the quality of water at reef level. You’ll also need to be very careful about feeding the Moorish idol, as it’s very particular and requires consistent feeding.
Moorish idols are extremely difficult to maintain in captive environments. The reasons for this are numerous, as they have specific tank requirements and plenty of food to sustain them. They can also spread diseases among other fish and are more difficult to quarantine than other species. If you don’t have the tank conditions just right, this fish isn’t very hardy and will likely succumb to rapidly declining health.
In the Moorish idol’s small mouth at the end of the snout sits long teeth that they use to feed. These teeth look and function somewhat like bristles.
The cost of a Moorish idol is on the high end, with these specimens costing anywhere from $100 to over $200. The fish’s size, rarity, and other factors will influence the price of a Moorish idol in the market. Shop around for the right vendors and deals, but ensure the business you turn to is trustworthy before buying.
Here are a few interesting facts about the Moorish idol you may want to know:
If you plan on keeping this fish, you’ll need to be choosey when it comes to tank mates. The best tank mates for the Moorish idol include those that are peaceful. For example, you can keep the Moorish idol with most dottybacks and wrasses.
Wondering where you can find the Moorish idol for sale? Try the following vendors:
While this fish might look great, it’s a headache to keep, even for veteran aquarists. Unless you’re truly prepared to take on the challenge of maintaining a Moorish idol, you’re better off seeking other members for your tank.