Bannerfish

Descending toward the reef crest, delicate bannerfish drift by in formation, their long dorsal filaments streaming like white pennants in the light. Feeding on plankton suspended above coral formations, they mark the boundary between open ocean and reef slope. Around them, unicornfish patrol the currents, completing the gradient from blue water to coral life below. Their fluttering silhouettes are the first heralds of the bustling reef world to come.

Common Name: Schooling Bannerfish

Scientific Name: Heniochus diphreutes

Local Dhivehi Name: Dhidhamas Bibee

Common Name: Sleek Unicornfish

Scientific Name: Naso hexacanthus

Local Dhivehi Name: Dhalhu Neiy Thumbi

📸Photo: Shahiq Shiyad