Indian Ocean Bannerfish
Heniochus pleurotaenia
A rarely seen bannerfish that schools in impressive numbers across Indian Ocean reefs.
About
The Indian Ocean Bannerfish (Heniochus pleurotaenia) is one of the less commonly encountered members of its genus in the hobby, which is a shame because it's a genuinely rewarding fish to keep. Its range stretches from the Maldives and Sri Lanka eastward through to Java and north into the Andaman Sea, where it occupies coral-rich lagoons and seaward reef crests, often in areas with a bit of wave surge. In the wild, this species is flexible in its social habits. Pairs are typical in coastal Indonesian waters, but offshore populations, especially around the Maldives, can form impressive aggregations. That social nature carries over into the aquarium, where a small group will feel more at home than a solitary specimen. Like other bannerfish, it carries that distinctive elongated dorsal fin that makes the genus so recognizable, along with bold contrasting body patterning. It's an omnivore that should accept a varied diet without too much fuss. Temperament-wise, this is a genuinely peaceful fish, and its tankmates should match that disposition. Pairing it with aggressive or nippy species is asking for trouble. Intermediate care experience is recommended, mostly to ensure stable reef water conditions and appropriate tank volume for a schooling species.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Indian Ocean Bannerfish
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Indian Ocean Bannerfish get?
- The Indian Ocean Bannerfish reaches about 4–6.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Indian Ocean Bannerfish need?
- A minimum of 70 gallons is recommended for the Indian Ocean Bannerfish, with more room needed for a proper group.
- What water parameters does the Indian Ocean Bannerfish need?
- The Indian Ocean Bannerfish does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Indian Ocean Bannerfish aggressive?
- The Indian Ocean Bannerfish is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Indian Ocean Bannerfish eat?
- The Indian Ocean Bannerfish is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Indian Ocean Bannerfish live?
- With good care, the Indian Ocean Bannerfish typically lives 3-5 years.
- Is the Indian Ocean Bannerfish reef safe?
- The Indian Ocean Bannerfish is generally considered reef safe.