Red Sea Bannerfish
Heniochus intermedius
Red Sea Bannerfish is a schooling coral-reef butterflyfish from the Red Sea and nearby western Indian Ocean. It feeds on zooplankton in midwater above reef slopes and drop-offs, and is common in clear, sheltered reef habitats.
Identification points
- Long, narrow white dorsal filament trailing from the first dorsal spine
- Bold black band runs through the eye and across the body
- Bright yellow body with white rear body and tail area
Habitat
Clear tropical coral reefs, outer reef slopes, lagoons, and drop-offs; usually seen in loose schools or pairs above coral heads and along current-swept reef edges.
Bait notes
Not a typical angling target and should generally be left alone on reefs. If incidentally hooked, small reef fish pieces, shrimp, or tiny plankton-style flies are the closest match to its natural diet.
Behavior
Day-active and strongly associated with current-exposed reef structure. It picks zooplankton from the water column rather than grazing on coral, often holding position in the open above the reef.
Caution
No notable food safety issue is generally associated with this small reef species, but it is not an intended table fish and many reef areas have local collection or fishing restrictions.
Fishing notes
Rarely targeted by recreational anglers; better observed or photographed while snorkeling/diving. If fishing near reef areas where it occurs, use very light tackle and avoid coral contact to reduce injury and habitat damage.