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

Kewalo Pipe, Oahu, 50 feet

Molokini Back Wall, 50 feet

100-foot Hole, Waikiki, Oahu, 85 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.

Text and photographs are copyrighted property of Keoki and Yuko Stender unless otherwise indicated.  No part of this website may be used without permission of the authors.  Images may not be used for any purpose without express permission of the photographers.