The Moorish Idol is related to the Surgeonfishes and Tangs with tough skin, tiny scales, and brushlike teeth for grazing upon sponge and hydroids.  In Hawaii they are found singly or in small groups.

Makena, Maui, 25 feet

Palea Point, Oahu, 25 feet

Sea Tiger Wreck, Oahu, 95 feet

Juveniles, Ft. Kamehemeha, Oahu, 4 feet

Sea Tiger Wreck, Oahu, 95 feet

Juvenile, Ft. Kamehemeha, Oahu, 4 feet

Common at all depths.  Scales are minute and not visible to the naked eye (unlike Heniochus).  Lacks caudal spines.  Feeds upon sponge and encrusting invertebrates.  Up to 9 inches.  Rarely schooling in Hawaii.  Hawaii, Indo-Pacific, Tropical Eastern Pacific.

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