Black & White Heniochus Butterflyfish (Heniochus acuminatus)

Black & White Heniochus Butterflyfish (Heniochus acuminatus) is one of the more durable of the butterflyfish species, and one of a few butterflies that are generally reef safe. It is a very active fish and should be housed in a tank of at least 55 gallons. It will tolerate members of its own kind in the same aquarium, as long as they are introduced to the tank at the same time. Members of a captive group will form a dominance hierarchy. Individuals fight for dominance by butting foreheads and trying to push each other backwards and when they display at each other. It will sometimes clean other fishes. This is a zooplankton feeder that can be housed with corals and other ornamental invertebrates. An occasional individual may nip at Xenia or other soft corals. When Butterflyfish are first introduced to the aquarium, they may refuse to eat. Should the fish continue this behavior for three or more days, live food should be offered (if not from the beginning). Food soaked in a garlic product will often entice the Butterfly to eat. Another useful method to encourage some Butterflyfish to eat is to place their food inside of a coral skeleton.