Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, found in reef slopes, lagoons, and deep coral formations.
- Easily recognized by its distinctive black-and-white coloration, elongated dorsal fin, and a pale "mask" across its face.
- Often confused with other Heniochus species but can be distinguished by its more muted facial markings.
- Typically found in pairs or small groups, forming loose aggregations near reef drop-offs.
- A hardy and adaptable species that adjusts well to aquarium life in well-maintained marine tanks.
Feeding
- Omnivorous, feeding on zooplankton, small invertebrates, and filamentous algae in the wild.
- Readily accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen shrimp, and marine algae in captivity.
- Supplementing with a varied diet of meaty and plant-based foods ensures optimal health.
- Multiple small feedings per day are recommended due to its high metabolism.
- Frequently observed grazing on live rock and picking at the substrate for hidden food sources.
Habitat
- Inhabits coral-rich reef slopes, deep reef plateaus, and sandy-bottomed areas near structures.
- Prefers an aquarium with open swimming space and rock formations for shelter.
- Requires stable water conditions and high-quality filtration to maintain health.
- A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended due to its active swimming nature.
- Mostly reef-safe but may nip at soft corals or small invertebrates in certain conditions.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
- Ideal pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Moderately hardy but benefits from a stable environment with minimal fluctuations.
- Best kept in a peaceful community setup to avoid stress from aggressive tank mates.
- Regular water changes and a high-protein diet contribute to long-term health.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful and does well in community aquariums with non-aggressive species.
- Best kept in pairs or small groups to encourage natural schooling behavior.
- Compatible with tangs, gobies, wrasses, and other similarly sized reef-safe fish.
- May show occasional interest in certain corals, so caution is advised in mixed reef setups.
- Should not be housed with overly aggressive fish that may outcompete it for food.
Aquarium Behavior
- Highly active swimmer, frequently exploring all areas of the tank.
- Forms strong bonds with tank mates and often follows other fish.
- Regularly picks at rock surfaces and the substrate in search of food.
- Can be shy when first introduced but quickly adapts to its surroundings.
- Thrives in a well-maintained aquarium with ample space, high water quality, and a varied diet.