More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 19.0cm / 7.48inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Docile but might be aggressive towards similar species of same gender |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Heniochus varius, commonly known as the Horned Bannerfish, is recognized for its elongated dorsal fin, hence its moniker Bannerfish. Among the species within this genus, H. acuminatus and H. diphreutes stand out for being relatively easy to maintain in captivity, with H. diphreutes considered particularly suitable for aquarists keen on incorporating Butterflyfish in coral aquariums due to their potential reef compatibility when adequately nourished.
Aquarium Suitability
Given its feeding habits primarily centered around coral polyps, the Horned Bannerfish may pose challenges in captivity, necessitating a well-prepared aquarist equipped with various suitable food options like living corals, mussels, and zooplankton to ensure the fish's nutritional needs are met. Extra care and attention are crucial when accommodating this species, with a significant portion facing difficulties and perishing shortly after introduction to captivity, making experience, preparation, and diligence imperative for successful care.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Considered of average hardiness, the Heniochus varius requires diligent care, including frequent feedings, particularly crucial during the acclimatization period and offering a varied diet comprising invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. Due to its shy and docile nature, caution must be exercised when housed with more assertive tankmates, and ample hiding spaces within live rock formations are essential to provide security for this species in an aquarium setting.
Reef Suitability
The Horned Bannerfish is deemed not reef safe, underscoring the importance of careful consideration when planning to incorporate this species into a coral reef environment due to its feeding preferences and potential harm to certain reef inhabitants like clams and tubeworms.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal maintenance of the Heniochus varius, a spacious aquarium of at least 500 liters that allows ample swimming room is recommended. The setup should include sufficient hiding spots among live rocks, along with water conditions maintained within a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Behaviour
Known for its docile temperament, the Horned Bannerfish may exhibit aggression towards similar species of the same gender, highlighting the importance of closely monitoring interactions within the aquarium to prevent confrontations.
Feeding and Diet
This species predominantly feeds on large polyp stone corals (LPS), soft corals, and sponges in its natural habitat and may require specific food sources to thrive in a captive setting, making a varied diet crucial for its overall health and well-being.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to the Pacific Ocean, the Heniochus varius is found from Indonesia to the Society Islands, ranging from southern Japan to New Caledonia and throughout Micronesia. Notably, it can also be sighted in the eastern Indian Ocean around Christmas Island, with its distribution overlapping with various marine ecosystems in the region.