Bank Butterflyfish (Prognathodes aya)

Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Bank Butterflyfish

Quick facts

Scientific namePrognathodes aya
FamilyChaetodontidae
Also known asMariposa De Banco
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietplanktivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Bank Butterflyfish has a yellow body with black markings forming vertical bands and an eye-band; the snout and dorsal region show orange-yellow coloration. It has the elongated snout typical of the genus Prognathodes, used for picking small invertebrates from crevices.

Diet and feeding

In captivity, feed small meaty items such as finely chopped frozen mysis shrimp, copepods, and quality flaked foods formulated for small reef fish. Offer food 2–3 times daily in small portions to encourage natural foraging behavior.

Difficulty and care for the Bank Butterflyfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Gill Flukes, Bacterial Infections

Origin and habitat

Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean, Bahamas, and along continental coasts from Florida to Brazil.

Log Bank Butterflyfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bank Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.