Collection: Butterflyfish

Elegant and Colorful Marine Beauties

Butterflyfish are among the most graceful and visually striking species in the ocean. With their vibrant patterns, elongated snouts, and fluid movements, these saltwater fish bring a touch of elegance and color to any marine aquarium.

Why Choose Butterflyfish?

Stunning colors and patterns that stand out in any aquarium
Graceful swimmers and centerpiece fish for marine displays
Pairs beautifully with other peaceful saltwater species
Available in both reef-safe and FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) options

Care Tips for Butterflyfish

Best kept in tanks 100 gallons or larger with live rock and open swimming space
Maintain stable salinity (1.023–1.026) and temperature (76–80°F)
Feed a varied diet of marine flakes, frozen mysis shrimp, and sponge-based foods
Introduce slowly to established systems with minimal aggressive tankmates

Popular Butterflyfish Species We Offer

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) – classic yellow and white bands; excellent for Aiptasia control
Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunula) – hardy species with bold black eye mask and yellow body
Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus) – distinctive snout for picking food from crevices; reef-safe with caution
Pyramid Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys polylepis) – peaceful, schooling, and reef-safe species
Threadfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga) – elegant and hardy; great for large community tanks

Butterflyfish are best suited for mature aquariums with excellent water quality. While some species adapt to reef life, others are better for FOWLR setups. Always research compatibility before adding a Butterflyfish to your system.

Butterflyfish FAQs

Are Butterflyfish reef-safe?

Some species, such as the Pyramid and Longnose Butterflyfish, are considered reef-safe. Others may nip at corals or feather dusters, so research each species’ compatibility before purchase.

What do Butterflyfish eat?

Butterflyfish have specialized diets that include sponges, coral polyps, and small invertebrates. In captivity, feed a mix of frozen mysis shrimp, spirulina, and sponge-based preparations for balanced nutrition.

Can I keep multiple Butterflyfish together?

Some species can coexist peacefully in large aquariums, especially schooling types like Pyramid Butterflyfish. Avoid mixing aggressive or territorial species in smaller tanks.