Bank Butterflyfish (Prognathodes aya)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
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.