The Phantom Bannerfish (Heniochus pleurotaenia) is a distinctive marine species known for its unique appearance and peaceful demeanor.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: No
• Minimum tank size: 473 liters (125 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 17 cm (6.7 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates.
• Be aware of: May nip at corals and small invertebrates; requires a well-established tank with ample swimming space and hiding spots; can be shy and may be outcompeted by more aggressive tank mates.
Appearance and Coloration
The Phantom Bannerfish has a laterally compressed body with a striking coloration pattern:
• Body Color: White background with light chocolate to dark areas.
• Facial Markings: A brown face mask covering the mouth and eyes, extending to the base of the first dorsal fin rays.
• Distinctive Features: A small horn-like protrusion between the eyes and a concave facial profile.
• Dorsal Fin: The first rays are elongated into short, white, feather-like filaments.
• Pattern: An inverted “V” shape starting at the ventral fins and ending on the anal fin; another dark area runs from the last dorsal fin rays to the base of the caudal peduncle.
This species can reach a maximum length of 17 cm (6.7 inches).
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Heniochus pleurotaenia is found in the central Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to western Thailand and from southern India to Java, Indonesia. It inhabits coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, typically at depths up to 25 meters. The species is often observed in pairs or small groups and prefers mixed algae and coral habitats. In some areas, such as the Maldives, large schools have been reported.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Phantom Bannerfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (473 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample swimming space.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Provide plenty of live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium will support their natural behaviors and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Phantom Bannerfish are omnivorous and adapt well to captive diets:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Frozen, freeze-dried, fresh, or flake foods
• Regular vegetable matter
• Vitamin-enriched brine shrimp
• Mysis shrimp
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times daily to meet their nutritional needs.
Providing ample live rock will allow natural grazing behavior, which is beneficial for their health and well-being. Initially, they may be shy and reluctant to eat; offering live or frozen foods can encourage feeding until they become accustomed to prepared foods.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Phantom Bannerfish are generally peaceful but can be shy:
• Social Structure: Can be kept singly, in pairs, or in small groups if the aquarium is large enough.
• Temperament: Peaceful but may be outcompeted by more aggressive tank mates.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include other peaceful community fish. Caution is advised when housing with more aggressive species, as the Phantom Bannerfish may become stressed.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate stress. Due to their shy nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent bullying.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: While often considered reef-safe, individual specimens may nip at corals and small invertebrates. Monitoring their behavior is essential, especially in reef setups.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Phantom Bannerfish can be a graceful and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.