Brown Heniochus (Asia Pacific)
The Brown Heniochus is a rich chocolate hue with a stark white stripe running diagonally behind its eyes, and another from the tip of its tall feathered dorsal fin to the base of its tail. A dark mask covers its face, and its lower fins are inky black. Its pelvic fins are especially large and rounded. When mature it develops a very unique feature- two curved horns extend over its eyes. It grows up to 8 inches and needs an aquarium of at least 125 gallons. It is regularly imported from Bali.
This species is normally quite peaceful and shy, and should not be kept with aggressive tank mates. It can be kept singly or in pairs or groups as long as all individuals are added at the same time to a large aquarium. Heniochus do not show differences between males and females. Heniochus are also known as bannerfish and are related to butterflyfish and angelfish, but lack the angel's distinctive cheek spines.
Butterflyfish and bannerfish may eat anemones, so they should not be kept in the same aquarium with one unless it is guarded by aggressive clownfish. The fish knows to attack the anemone on its mouth, which does not sting, and will make a quick meal of it. Many species also benefit from filamentous algae in the aquarium to graze on.
This species may nip on many types of corals, clam mantles, sponges, and feather dusters. They do not typically bother other types of invertebrates such as crustaceans. They feel most secure when there is lots of live rock and overhangs to hide under, as plenty of open space for swimming. This species is easy to feed but may be fussy initially. It should be offered a variety of meaty and herbivore preparations such as frozen Mysis shrimp, half shell clams, marine algae and Spirulina; it should be fed 2-3 times a day. Bloodworms or small live anemones may be used initially to entice it to feed. Soft food may also be pressed into the rock to provide grazing opportunities. Supplements such as Brightwell's Angelixer and Garlic Power may elicit a feeding response.
