Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sponges, algae, varied frozen foods; difficult to feed
Aquarium species profile
Moorish Idol
Zanclus cornutus · Indo-Pacific (widespread)
Minimum tank125 gal
Adult size9"
Care levelExpert
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature72–80°F
pH range8.1–8.4
Compatible tank mates
Peaceful reef fish; other Moorish Idols (in pairs/groups in huge tanks)
Tank mates to avoid
Aggressive fish that outcompete it, fin-nippers
Care notes
Famously challenging; most specimens die within months. Resembles Bannerfish. Will pick at corals. Captive specimens almost never thrive long-term. Discouraged for most keepers.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.