Bannerfish Masked MED

The Masked Bannerfish is quite striking. This delicate butterflyfish has a unique and lovely appearance. It's a large fish that may grow to about 10 inches (25 cm) in the wild, though it's more common in aquariums at 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). It features a beautiful long extension to its dorsal fin and a dramatic pattern of white and black bands contrasting with bright yellowfins.

Coral and rocky reefs are home to these butterflyfish. They live in protected lagoons and channels, as well as deeper areas of the outer reef slopes. They can be found in depths ranging from 6 1/2 to 246 feet (2 to 75 meters), however, they are most often found below 33 feet (10 m). Adults are frequently encountered in pairs, though they are occasionally spotted alone. They have a significant and very wide distribution. They can be found in the Indo-Pacific from East Africa and the Arabian (Persian) Gulf in the west to the Society Islands (French Polynesia) in the east, north to southern Japan, and south to Lord Howe Island. They can also be found all around Micronesia.

Tank Recommendations for Masked Bannerfish

As long as its needs are addressed, the Masked Bannerfish is not a difficult fish to keep in a well-established aquarium. It does not need any technical maintenance, thus it is suitable for a beginner aquarist. It will eat a wide range of meals and grow to be a pretty hardy fish. It is suitable for aquariums with a tank capacity of at least 600 litres or 158 gallons.

The polyps of several stony and soft coral species are nipped by this fish, which is known as a coral eater. As a result, it is not suitable for reef aquariums. They should be kept in a "fish only" (FO) or "fish only with live rock" (FOWLR) aquarium set up. They need a brightly lit aquarium with plenty of water flow.

Suitable Tank Buddies

These are tranquil fish that would do well in a community tank with other peaceful fish. They should not be housed alongside fish that are more aggressive. They will be more active in the company of their own species, but they should be kept in odd numbers.

Usually Compatible

These fish do well in aquariums with other less aggressive fish. The Masked Bannerfish is usually compatible with a wide range of fish. These include Angelfish both Dwarf and Large varieties, Boxfish, Clownfish, Hawkfish, and Parrotfish.

Sometime Compatible

If you have more than one, keep them in odd numbers since they like to develop a social hierarchy. If kept in pairs, one fish may be dominant over the other, causing issues. They will usually have no problems getting along with Squirrelfish, Triggerfish, Eels, and Wrasse. It's advised to monitor your Butterflyfish if mixing the the aforementioned tankmates, especially when initially introduced.

Rarely Compatible

Because this species is not aggressive, it is better to pair it with tank mates who aren't territorial or hostile. As a result, the Masked Bannerfish is rarely found alongside Groupers, Sharks, or Snappers.

Feeding your Masked Bannerfish

The Masked Bannerfish will accept most food in the aquarium. These fish are planktivores in the wild, although they will also eat benthic invertebrates. Young specimens have been observed acting as cleaner fish, consuming parasites from other fish. Feed live brine, worms, a nice angelfish or marine formula, and a spirulina formula in the tank. In the beginning, offer a variety of foods pretty often. Feed them at least twice a day, and three to four times a day is recommended for young juveniles.