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Pennant Coralfish

Heniochus acuminatus

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Heniochus acuminatus
Class: Fish
Length: 6 to 8 inches
Life span: 5+ years
Conservation status: Least concern
Number of offspring: Unknown

About

I LIVE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC OCEAN

The pennant coralfish, also referred to as the longfin bannerfish, is native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They can be found as far west as the east African coast and as far east as Australia. They typically enjoy tropical waters with plenty of coverage like coral reefs.


I AM AN OMNIVORE

The pennant coralfish will often forage for food amongst the coral reef in their habitats. They will consume both zooplankton and very small invertebrates who share their coral reef habitat. Younger individuals of this species will sometimes eat parasites off of other fish as well.


PENNANT CORALFISH ARE SOCIAL

Behavior tends to be different for the pennant coralfish depending on their age. Younger pennant coralfish tend to be more solitary and like to be on their own. However, adult pennant coralfish are more social and will gather in larger groups.


AMAZING ADAPTATIONS

The pennant coralfish has a long snout with bristly teeth, an adaptation that allows this fish species to reach into small cracks and crevices in the coral reefs to retrieve food.


HELPING THE PENNANT CORALFISH IN THE WILD

By visiting the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, you are supporting local, regional, and global conservation. A portion of every ticket sold goes towards conservation of wildlife and wild places. Each year, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo donates over $250,000 to our conservation partners


I AM IMPORTANT TO MY ECOSYSTEM

The pennant coralfish plays an important role in their ecosystem. With their diet of zooplankton and small invertebrates, this species brings about balance to the ecosystem and helps manage overgrowth.


 

Conservation

Learn more about our efforts, our conservation partners around the world, and the simple steps you can take to contribute.

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