Longfin Bannerfish

I am researching what fish i would like to add to my tank and was considering a longfin bannerfish. According to liveaquaria.com the minimum tank size is 50 gallons and i have a 46 gallon bowfront with an 18 gal sump & 68 lbs live rock.

Any opinions on if this would be an OK addition?

Oh, currently i'm finishing up my cycle... has been running with live rock for a few weeks now. I plan on getting a clean up crew soon. Will definetly get a clown (or 2) and 1 or 2 other small peaceful fish. (Later adding coral).

- Tim

 

Long fin bannerfish is a common name applied to many henios. What species in particular are we talking about?

 

Howdy fellow St. Louisan

Heniocus could be kept for several years in a 46. However, eventually you would need to either upgrade your tank or trade in your fish. Their banner gets longer and makes them more attractive the older (and bigger) they get.

 

Very sorry i didn't specify - the scientific name is: Heniochus acuminatus

Thanks! It would be great to be able to add it - i'll do a little more research on the growth rate.

Thanks for the responses!

 

If you get that species, you will not ever be able to add coral as long as you keep it.
If you want the best of both worlds, get a heniochus diphreutes.

 

Great advise. Though an article i read says they like to school, do you think it would be ok to only get 1 - if not i can just take them off my list (i'm more into what's best for the fish).

 

It really depends on the other fish. With your fish list it should be fine. I have kept two, both singularly on separate occasions. First one tried schooling with a powder brown tang, which eventually got frustrated with it and killed it. The second one tried pairing with my mandarin, and all was well. But they will try to pair with something, and IMHO are best enjoyed as 2+ specimens. That being said, one can be kept successfully by all means.

 

I like those fish....one of my favorite fish that I have never had! Post pics when you get them. I am not sure what LFS you go to, but I actually saw a couple recently (and they have been there for a bit so they are eating!) Since I dont think I should/can mention names here...PM me if you want to know

PS: from St. Louis too! Welcome

 

find the smallest one you can get i have seen a couple smaller ones that would be perfect for your size tank, but i have also seen some big ones that would be totally stuffed!