Indian Ocean Longfin Bannerfish

Heniochus pleurotaenia

The Indian Ocean longfin bannerfish (Heniochus pleurotaenia), also known as the phantom bannerfish, is a beautiful butterflyfish found in the Indian Ocean. Adults reach 17-20 cm and display bold black and white vertical banding across a laterally compressed body, with a characteristic elongated fourth dorsal spine forming a trailing white filament. They have a shorter snout compared to some other bannerfish species and subtle brown shading on the posterior body. They inhabit coral reef slopes, walls, and channels at depths of 5-40 meters, often found in pairs or small groups near coral overhangs and drop-offs. They feed on zooplankton and small benthic invertebrates. Their elegant profile with the banner-like dorsal filament creates beautiful silhouettes when photographed against blue water. They are commonly encountered on dives in the Maldives, Seychelles, and East African coast, where they add grace and beauty to reef wall scenes.