Zanclus Cornutus (Moorish Idol)
October 22nd, 2008 | 
Author: Scientific name: Zanclus Cornutus
Common names: Moorish Idol
Maximum Length: 7 in (4 in in aquarium).
Minimum tank size: 100 gal.
Hardiness: Difficult (For Experts only)
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Reef Compatibility: Some individual will nip at LPS and soft coral polyps.
Diet: Omnivore. Need a varied died including shrimp, squid, clam, mysid shrimp, live brine shrimp, worms, spirulina, algae and vegetable.
Only member of the family Zanclidae, the Moorish Idol is a close relative of the Tangs or Surgeonfish and lives in school along the reef of the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea. It is one of the most beautiful fish but unfortunately on of the most difficult to keep in aquarium. Long term survivability in aquariums is rare (2 years is good).
Ideal aquarium condition should be as follows: 78-80º F with a pH between 8.1 and 8.4 and a sg of 1.022 and plenty of light. Nitrates, nitrites and ammonia need to be almost zero. It’s recommended they be kept in small groups of 3 to 5 in a large tank with enough room to swim and hiding areas.
The Moorish Idol is difficult to feed. Many specimens will simply refuse to eat in aquarium and this is one of the main reason why they are so difficult to keep. They are bottom feeders and graze on marine algea and sponges. Having plenty of live rock will provide grazing opportunities in between meals. They need a varied died of small live foods mysid shrimp, brine shrimp, worms and sponge. Diet should be supplement with small shrimp, squid, clam, spirulina, algae and vegetable. They should be fed before you take them home from the store to help them survive the stress of being moved and acclimated.
Patrice Lapointe
Visit <a href="http://www.aquariumslife.com">Aquariums Life</a> for more fish and coral profile
Random Posts
Posted in Fish
Leave a Reply
