Fin's Fish Guide
The Masked bannerfish (Heniochus monoceros) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The masked bannerfish is a butterflyfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 24 cm and has a deep, white body with two broad black oblique bands, a black 'mask' over the head and nape and a greatly elongated, white pennant-like dorsal-fin ray; adults have two short horns projecting above the eyes. As a reef-dweller it searches over coral and rocky reefs for small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Masked bannerfish?
The Masked bannerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Elongated white pennant-shaped dorsal fin ray and a black head mask; reef butterflyfish
Where does the Masked bannerfish live?
The Masked bannerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Masked bannerfish get?
The Masked bannerfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Masked bannerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Masked bannerfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Masked bannerfish edible?
The Masked bannerfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heniochus
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Masked bannerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Masked bannerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.