By Scott W. Michael
Among the many amazing fish on coral reefs is the beautiful and elegant Moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus). It has been suggested that the common name of this fish was given to it by the group from continental Africa known as the Moors. They apparently believed that this fish could bring happiness to anyone who caught it — but whereas the Moors may have equated this fish with bliss, seasoned aquarists know that Z. cornutus is more often a source of great sadness. The record of keeping this species in captivity is not good. We will review what is known about the biology and husbandry of this magnificent fish, but I am not suggesting that you bring one home, unless you are very experienced and have successfully maintained other challenging species.
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