Schooling Bannerfish

Heniochus diphreutes 

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-Pacific Ocean 

Diet : Zooplankton 

Size : 21 cm 

Lifespan : 5-8 years

Description

The schooling bannerfish is characterized by the first few spines on its dorsal fin, which are elongated white strands. Its flat body is white with two diagonal black bands and yellow dorsal fins. Its snout is short and its mouth can be extended to capture zooplankton in the water column. 

Behavior

They generally live in large groups on outer reef slopes and canals. When young, these fish can act as cleaners, eating parasites and slime from other fish. 

Reproduction

Although they live in large schools, they form monogamous pairs to spawn, they are pelagic spawners 

Communication & Perception

They communicate primarily through non-verbal, visual cues to maintain group cohesion, coordinate swimming patterns, and manage social interactions within their schools.  

Predator(s)

Coral grouper and other larger predatory reef fish