Moonyfishes

Monodactylidae

Moonyfishes

Monodactylidae is a family of perciform bony fish that are commonly known as monos, moonyfishes, or fingerfishes. These fish have a distinctively professional appearance, with strongly laterally compressed bodies that are disc-shaped, as well as tall anal and dorsal fins. Interestingly, unlike most fish, scales are present on their dorsal fins and sometimes on the anal fins. Their pelvic fins tend to be small or even vestigial. In terms of size, they are considered moderate, typically measuring around 25 centimetres (9.8 in) in length. However, Monodactylus sebae can be taller than its length, reaching up to 30 centimetres (12 in) from the tip of the dorsal fin down to the tip of the anal fin. This unique feature has earned them the name "fingerfishes". Most species within this family have a silvery appearance with yellow and black markings, and their juveniles are especially attractive. It is worth noting that these fish are highly sought after as aquarium pets.

1 Creatures in Moonyfishes