Species GuidePennant Coralfish

Pennant Coralfish

Heniochus acuminatus

Chaetodontidae family · Reef

Least Concern

Also called the Longfin Bannerfish, this elegant black-and-white reef fish has an extraordinarily elongated fourth dorsal fin that streams behind it like a pennant. A favourite of underwater photographers on Fujairah dive sites.

Species Stats

Max Length

25 cm

Max Weight

0.3 kg

Depth Range

2–75 m

Diet

Zooplankton, benthic invertebrates

Habitat

Coral reefs, rocky outcrops, lagoons

Local Name (Arabic)

أبو ريشة

Fun Facts

  • 1

    The long dorsal fin "pennant" can grow longer than the fish's entire body.

  • 2

    Often seen in pairs — they are believed to be monogamous and mate for life.

  • 3

    Sometimes acts as a cleaner fish, picking parasites from larger fish.

Found In

FujairahSharjah (Khor Fakkan)DibbaRas Al Khaimah (east coast)

Quick Info

FamilyChaetodontidae
HabitatReef
EdibilityNot Edible
CoastGulf of Oman
Dangernone

Caught a Pennant Coralfish?

Log your catch and contribute to UAE marine research.

Log This Catch