Red Sea Bannerfish

Introduction:

Common Names: Red Sea Bannerfish, Yellowback Bannerfish.

Natural Habitat: Found in coral reefs of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Prefers clear, shallow reef zones with abundant coral structures and open spaces for swimming.

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: A striking fish with a tall, flowing dorsal fin "banner." The body features a bold black and white striped pattern with a yellow dorsal region and tail.

Size: Grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length.

Lifespan: 5-7 years in captivity with proper care.

Habitat Requirements:

Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons for a single specimen or 100+ gallons for a pair or group.

Water Conditions:

Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).

pH: 8.1-8.4.

Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity.

Aquascaping: Provide live rock formations for hiding and grazing. Ensure ample swimming space and avoid sharp decorations that may damage their delicate fins.

Diet:

Primary Diet: Omnivorous; in the wild, they feed on plankton, coral polyps, and small invertebrates.

Supplemental Feeding: Offer a varied diet of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Marine pellets, algae-based foods, and nori can also be included.

Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions.

Compatibility:

Temperament: Peaceful and suitable for community tanks. May display mild aggression toward other similar-shaped fish.

Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with tangs, gobies, wrasses, clownfish, and other non-aggressive reef species.

Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with aggressive fish or those prone to nipping, as well as delicate corals, as they may graze on coral polyps.

Care Level:

Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water conditions and a varied diet. Their potential to graze on corals makes them better suited for fish-only or FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) setups.

Health Monitoring: Monitor for common marine diseases like ich and fin damage. Regular water changes and a well-established aquarium are essential.

Breeding:

Breeding Behavior: Rarely bred in captivity. In the wild, they form pairs and release eggs into the water column during spawning.

Breeding in Captivity: Uncommon due to their complex mating behaviors and larval rearing requirements.

Economic Considerations:

Market Demand: Highly valued in the aquarium trade for their beauty and elegance.

Pricing: Moderate to high, depending on size and availability.

Conclusion:

The Red Sea Bannerfish is a visually stunning addition to marine aquariums, appreciated for its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. While they are moderately challenging to care for, they can thrive in well-maintained tanks with suitable conditions. This species is best suited for aquarists seeking an eye-catching centerpiece for a fish-only or FOWLR setup.