Phantom Bannerfish (Heniochus pleurotaenia)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Phantom Bannerfish is a striking black and white butterflyfish with a large black dorsal patch extending across most of the body and head, while the lower body transitions to silvery-white. The distinctive tall, flowing dorsal filament (banner) is a hallmark feature of the genus Heniochus. A white vertical bar is present behind the head, contrasting sharply with the dark coloration.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, small pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Include some vegetable matter such as spirulina-enriched foods. Offer food multiple times daily in small portions.
Difficulty and care for the Phantom Bannerfish
Moderate difficulty. The Phantom Bannerfish is hardier than some other Heniochus species but requires excellent water quality, stable conditions, and frequent small feedings to thrive. It can be prone to stress and parasitic infections if conditions deteriorate.
Common health issues
Ich, marine velvet, head and lateral line erosion (HLLE), fin rot
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward to Hawaii, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. Typically found on coral reef slopes and steep outer reef margins.
Log Phantom Bannerfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Phantom Bannerfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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