The Masked Bannerfish (Heniochus monoceros) is a beautiful and eye-catching marine fish known for its tall, laterally compressed body, bold black-and-white patterning, yellow accents, and graceful trailing dorsal “banner.” This species has a distinctive dark facial mask that gives it a unique appearance compared to other bannerfish. Its elegant swimming style and high-contrast coloration make it a standout display fish for larger saltwater aquariums. Best suited for fish-only systems or carefully planned large marine displays, the Masked Bannerfish is an impressive choice for aquarists looking for a showy, active, and unusual species. Care GuideThe Masked Bannerfish should be kept in a spacious, mature saltwater aquarium with excellent water quality, open swimming room, and plenty of rockwork for shelter. It is generally peaceful to semi-aggressive and does best with other moderately sized, non-bullying tankmates. Like many butterflyfish relatives, it should be offered a varied diet that includes mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, marine-based frozen blends, sponge-based foods, and high-quality prepared foods. Feed multiple small meals daily while acclimating, as bannerfish may take time to adjust to aquarium foods. This species is not considered fully reef safe, as it may nip at coral polyps, clam mantles, and other sessile invertebrates, so it is best kept in fish-only or FOWLR aquariums unless carefully monitored. A stable aquarium with strong filtration, consistent salinity, and peaceful surroundings will help this striking fish settle in and thrive. Photos shown here are generally representative, each fish varies some in color. All fish are eating. We feed Nori to Tangs and Angels and all fish are fed a combination of pellets and frozen Spirulina Enhanced Brine Shrimp and Bloodworms. Upon arrival we recommend floating each fish for 30 minutes to equalize temperature and then the fish should be released into your tank without additional acclimation.
