moonyfishes

Moonyfish refers to a group of marine fish belonging to the family Monodactylidae. These fish are characterized by their distinctive, almost circular or moon-shaped bodies, a feature that gives them their common name. They typically possess a silvery or golden coloration and are known for their deep, laterally compressed bodies with tall dorsal and anal fins that can make them appear almost disc-like. Moonyfish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, mangroves, and sometimes even freshwater environments.

These fish are generally social and often found in schools, particularly when young. Their diet consists mainly of algae and small invertebrates. In the aquarium trade, moonyfish are sometimes kept as ornamental fish, though their adaptability to captive environments can vary. They are known to be hardy but may require brackish or saltwater conditions, depending on the species and its life stage. The family Monodactylidae currently includes a few recognized species, with Monodactylus argenteus, the silver moony, being one of the most common. Their unique appearance and schooling behavior make them an interesting subject for ichthyologists and aquarium enthusiasts alike.