Heniochus Acuminatus: The Pennant Coralfish
Heniochus Acuminatus, commonly known as the Pennant Coralfish, is a striking and popular species of fish belonging to the butterflyfish family. It's characterized by its distinctive black and white body with bright yellow tail, pectoral, and anal fins. The elongated dorsal fin gives it a pennant-like appearance, hence its common name.
Habitat and Distribution
This fish is primarily found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, inhabiting coral reefs. They are often seen in schools, gracefully gliding through the water column.
Aquarium Keeping
The Pennant Coralfish is a relatively easy-to-care-for species and is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums. However, it requires a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas. A well-established aquarium with a diverse range of corals and invertebrates is ideal for this fish.
Key points for aquarium keeping:
- Tank size: Minimum of 120 gallons (450 liters)
- Water parameters: Maintain stable water conditions with appropriate salinity, temperature, and pH levels.
- Diet: Primarily feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Offer a varied diet including live, frozen, and dry foods.
- Compatibility: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially towards other butterflyfish.