Quick Stats
Moderate |
Temperament
Peaceful |
Color Form
Black, White, Yellow |
Diet
Omnivore |
Reef Compatible
With Caution |
sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
Max. Size
10″ |
Family
Chaetodontidae |
Minimum Tank Size
125 gallons |
|
Description
The Masked Bannerfish (Heniochus monoceros), also known as the Phantom Bannerfish, is a strikingly beautiful fish distinguished by its elegant black and white bands, vibrant yellow tail, and a unique dark mask over its eyes. This peaceful and hardy fish is known for its calm disposition and can be a centerpiece in large marine tanks. Due to its size and social nature, it does best in spacious aquariums with ample swimming room and a variety of rockwork.
Masked Bannerfish are native to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, where they often congregate in groups. In captivity, they may exhibit similar social behaviors, so it’s possible to keep a group in sufficiently large tanks. As a peaceful species, the Masked Bannerfish can coexist with other non-aggressive tank mates, but its reef compatibility is considered “with caution” since it may nip at corals and sessile invertebrates.
An omnivore, the Masked Bannerfish has a natural diet consisting of small invertebrates, zooplankton, and algae. In the aquarium, it should be provided with a varied diet that includes marine pellets, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and chopped seafood. Providing multiple small meals daily can help maintain its health and coloration.
With its unique look and easygoing nature, the Masked Bannerfish is a fantastic choice for a peaceful, large fish-only setup or carefully chosen reef tanks. This majestic fish thrives in well-maintained water conditions and is sure to make a lasting impression in any well-prepared marine aquarium.