Heniochus singularius Smith & Radcliffe, 1911
Singular bannerfish
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Chaetodontidae (Butterflyfishes)
Max. size:  30 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 250 m
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: Andaman Islands in the eastern Indian Ocean to Samoa, north to southern Japan, south to Rowley Shoals and New Caledonia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 25-27; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-18. Description: Adults have black-centered scales in the main white band (Ref. 1602), juveniles have long banners. Has mostly black face (Ref. 48636). Snout length 2.5-3.3 in HL; body depth 1.5-1.6 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  An uncommon species (Ref. 9710) that inhabits deep lagoon and seaward reefs. Adults solitary or in small groups and prefer areas with rich coral growth and high vertical relief (Ref. 1602). Juveniles solitary and secretive on inshore reefs. Largest of the bannerfishes (Ref. 48636). Feed on coral polyps (Ref. 9710). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Form pairs during breeding (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 09 October 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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