Schooling Bannerfish 

Also known as False Moorish Idol, Pennant Bannerfish

The Schooling Bannerfish is a stunning and unique species displaying bold black and white vertical stripes with an elongated dorsal fin. This social butterflyfish naturally forms schools in the wild and is one of the few butterflyfish that can be successfully kept in groups, making it a spectacular choice for larger aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Heniochus acuminatus or Heniochus diphreutes 
• Common Names: Schooling Bannerfish, Pennant Coralfish, False Moorish Idol
• Adult Size: Up to 7 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; thrives in groups
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; hardier than many butterflyfish

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide substantial open swimming areas with moderate rockwork for shelter. This planktivorous species spends most time in open water, especially when kept in groups. Benefits from good water flow.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate to strong water circulation These maintain clean, oxygen-rich conditions this active species prefers.

Diet & Feeding 

Schooling Bannerfish are planktivores with hearty appetites. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, copepods, finely chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Readily accepts prepared foods; easier to feed than most butterflyfish

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Best Kept in Groups: Unlike most butterflyfish, naturally schools; 3-5 individuals create impressive displays
• Peaceful Nature: Non-aggressive toward conspecifics and other species
• Introduce Simultaneously: Add entire group together for best results
• Group Size: Minimum of 3 recommended; larger groups in appropriately sized tanks

Notes & Considerations

• One of the few butterflyfish that naturally schools and can be kept in groups without aggression.
• More reef-safe than most butterflyfish due to planktivorous diet; rarely nips corals.
• Resembles the Moorish Idol but is much hardier and easier to maintain.
• Bold black and white stripes with elongated dorsal fins create a dramatic appearance.
• Very active swimmers that utilize the full water column.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Groups create synchronized swimming behavior that is visually spectacular.
• Does not require live rock for grazing like many butterflyfish.

Why Choose a Quarantined Schooling Bannerfish? 

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this impressive and social species.