Heniochus intermedius

Datasheet

General Description

The Red Sea bannerfish, scientifically known as Heniochus intermedius, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family and is characterized by its distinct long dorsal fin, earning it the name Bannerfish. Among the species in its genus, H. acuminatus and H. diphreutes stand out for being relatively easy to maintain, with H. diphreutes being a favored choice for aquarists looking to house Butterflyfish in a coral aquarium due to their tendency to be reef-safe when adequately nourished.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums with care, the Red Sea bannerfish demands regular feeding throughout the day, particularly during the initial stages post-introduction. It is crucial to provide ample hiding spots, such as between live rocks, to cater to their shy and docile nature. These fish thrive in environments with plenty of swimming space, necessitating a tank size of a minimum of 500 liters. They can coexist peacefully when introduced simultaneously, but caution is advised when housed with more aggressive tank mates.

Care and Hardiness

With an average level of hardiness, the Red Sea bannerfish requires a varied diet to thrive, feeding on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. Ensuring a healthy diet is crucial for their well-being, and frequent feeding is recommended, especially during the acclimatization phase. It is essential to purchase healthy specimens free from parasites or infections to avoid potential complications.

Reef Suitability

Despite their attractiveness, Red Sea bannerfish are not considered reef-safe. While they naturally prey on tubeworms and bristleworms, these fish may nibble on clams, including species like Tridacna, and could pose a threat to certain coral specimens. Therefore, caution is advised if housing them in a reef setting.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Red Sea bannerfish, ensure the presence of ample hiding spaces between live rocks. Maintaining stable water conditions within the parameters of pH 8.1-8.4, temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being. These fish prefer a diverse diet, including live SPS or LPS corals, to mimic their natural feeding behavior and remain healthy.

Behaviour

Red Sea bannerfish are generally peaceful and tend to ignore other fish species. Multiple Bannerfish can coexist, although similar species should be kept as pairs to prevent potential conflict. Due to their shy nature, they may require time to acclimatize to their new environment, emphasizing the need to create a stress-free setting for these fish to thrive.

Feeding and Diet

A recommended diet for the Red Sea bannerfish includes small crustaceans, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. Ensuring that they receive a varied diet containing essential nutrients is vital for their overall health and vitality. Feeding several times a day is recommended, especially initially, to help them adapt to aquarium conditions and maintain their well-being.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to the Western Indian Ocean, specifically the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea bannerfish typically inhabits coral-rich environments. Found in waters with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, these fish are known to frequent reefs and rocky areas, where they can forage for their natural diet of tubeworms and small crustaceans within the intricate coral structures.