Bannerfish

Care

The Bannerfish is a bold species, ideally suited to spacious fish-only aquaria. Groups can be kept together, but they must be added simultaneously and whilst they are young. These fish form a dominance hierarchy and any specimens that are added at a later date are unlikely to be accepted. Tankmates should be of similar size and of a relatively outgoing nature. Small, docile species should be avoided. The tank should offer both a decent amount of swimming space, plus some rockwork for the fish to hide/rest amongst. It is not unusual to observe young specimens acting as cleaner fish. The impressive dorsal fin lengthens as the fish mature. There is a similar-looking species known as the Schooling Bannerfish (Heniochus diphreutes) which is a planktivore and poses much less of a threat to corals. A quick way to tell them apart is the middle black stripe on H. acuminatus extends onto the anal fin (whereas the same black stripe ends at the corner of the anal fin in H. diphreutes). H. acuminatus also has a more elongated snout. May also be seen on sale as the Black & White Butterflyfish or Pennant Coralfish.

Feeding

Offer a varied diet consisting of small meaty frozen foods such as Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp and finely chopped krill/prawns/cockle etc, plus marine flake food & herbivore rations. Feed small amounts 3 times per day.

Breeding

This egg scattering species is unlikely to breed in the home aquarium.