Spottedtail Morwong

Goniistius zonatus

The Spottedtail Morwong is a marine fish known for its distinctive appearance, marked by a white body and head adorned with several diagonal reddish-orange bands. Its caudal fin is uniquely decorated with white spots, making it relatively easy to identify among other reef fish. This species can grow up to 45 cm in length. Divers are likely to encounter this fish in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, particularly around Japan, Korea, southern China, Taiwan, and northern Vietnam. It inhabits rocky reef faces and slopes, typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 15 meters. The Spottedtail Morwong feeds primarily on benthic invertebrates, which it filters from the substrate. It has been observed feeding in areas with benthic mats of diatoms, using its gill rakers to separate small animals from the algae. This species is territorial, often defending its feeding grounds from other fish of the same size. In terms of conservation, the Spottedtail Morwong is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. While it is harmless to humans, it is commercially cultured in Japan. Divers may find this species to be a common sight in its natural habitat, providing an interesting subject for underwater observation.