Black and White Butterflyfish: A Look at These Stunning Aquatic Creatures

Heniochus acuminatus

Black and White Butterflyfish exhibit strongly contrasting black on white patterns and a long vertical dorsal fin that resembles a banner flag, earning it the name Longfin Bannerfish as well. Heniochus acuminatus are native to Papua New Guinea and surrounding islands along the reefs towards Tahiti. This large fish can grow up to 10 inches and live for several years in established and stable environments consisting of similar sized passive fish, including other Black and White Butterflyfish. Due to its size and feeding habits, an aquarium of fifty gallons or more is required. This variety of Butterflyfish are regularly destructive to reef structures because of the grazing in between meals, and therefore should either remain very well fed or other accommodations should be considered before choosing to make this addition.

The Black and White Butterflyfish are omnivorous and therefore will eat practically any food sources available to them, including reef, so it is common for flake food paired with an occasional supplement of frozen shrimp to suffice for this easy to care for resident. These are highly active and playful after developing a sense of hierarchy with the other members of the tank, and typically stay out in the open ready to be viewed and frequently fed.