The Moorish Idol is also commonly known in Hawaii as "Kihikihi" which means "curves," "corners," or "zigzags," and refers to its shape and color pattern. It is the only member of the family Zanclidae, and a very close relative of the Tangs or Surgeonfish. One of the most widespread fish, it can be found throughout the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and all of the tropical Pacific. Wild specimens can attain a length of 7 inches, but 4 inches is more likely in the aquarium.
The Moorish Idol tends to be very peaceful. Due to its size, schooling nature, and need for swimming space, it requires a large aquarium of at least 125 gallons. As its beauty is most evident while swimming, giving it adequate room is well rewarded. It is compatible with most fish and larger invertebrates, but should not be kept with any polyps or corals, which it will eat. Small invertebrates may be threatened as well.
The Moorish Idol is a very difficult fish to feed. Live rock with large amounts of algae and sponges on which it can feed will help it acclimate. Then offer a varied diet of finely chopped meaty items, mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, Spirulina, and algae. It should be fed several times a day.
Perhaps the most graceful of all marine fish, for many hobbyists, it is also one of the most difficult fish to keep because it is so difficult to feed. For all but the most expert hobbyist, it is better admired in the ocean or in a public aquarium rather than in a home tank.
The Flounder, also known as Plate Fish or Peacock Flounder, is laterally compressed and lays on its side on the bottom of the ocean or aquarium. Early in development, both eyes migrate to the left or right side, usually the left. The Flounder has a dull color with occasional light blue spotting. This allows it to lay in the sand, where the dull colors blend in making it very hard to see.
It requires a 125 gallon or larger aquarium with a sandy bottom which will allow it to blend in and change positions. It will eat most any invertebrate or small fish that come within its vicinity.
The diet should consist of chopped marine meats.
The Manybar Goatfish is a striking and active bottom-dwelling fish recognized by the numerous vertical bars covering its silver-white body. As it matures, its coloration becomes more vibrant, making it an attractive addition to large marine aquariums. Like other members of the goatfish family, it uses the pair of sensitive barbels beneath its chin to search the sand for food, bringing constant movement and natural behavior to the aquarium.
An established 180 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of open swimming space, a sandy substrate, and rockwork providing a few hiding places is recommended. Juvenile Manybar Goatfish spend much of their time sifting through the sand in search of small invertebrates, while larger specimens may prey upon small crustaceans, worms, and small fish. Goatfish are best housed with peaceful to semi-aggressive tank mates.
The diet should consist of a variety of meaty foods. Due to their fast metabolism, Manybar Goatfish should be fed four to five times daily.
