How to Identify Pennant Coralfish

To identify Pennant Coralfish (Heniochus chrysostomus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is predominantly white to yellowish-white, marked by three prominent, broad, diagonal orange to brownish-orange bands. The first band runs from the nape through the eye to the pectoral fin base. The second band extends from the anterior dorsal fin spines to the pelvic fins. The third band originates from the posterior dorsal fin spines and extends towards the anal fin. The snout is often yellowish. The caudal fin is typically white or translucent.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three broad, diagonal orange to brownish-orange bands on a white to yellowish-white body., Greatly elongated fourth dorsal fin spine, forming a pennant-like filament., Small, pointed snout.

Dorsal fin

11-12 spines, 23-25 soft rays; the fourth dorsal spine is greatly elongated, forming a long, trailing filament.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

16-18 rays, typically clear to yellowish.

Distinctive fins

The elongated fourth dorsal spine is the most distinguishing feature, giving rise to its common name.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Bands

   Look for the three distinct, broad, diagonal orange to brownish-orange bands against a white or yellowish-white body. These bands are a key identifier.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin Filament

   The greatly elongated fourth dorsal fin spine, resembling a pennant or banner, is unmistakable and gives the fish its common name.

3. 3

   Snout Coloration

   The snout often has a yellowish tint, which can help differentiate it from some other Heniochus species.

4. 4

   Behavior

   Often seen singly or in pairs, actively picking at corals and rocks for food.

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