Pearl Butterflyfish (Roa excelsa)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Expert care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Roa excelsa has an elongated, slender body, reaching up to 150 cm in length. It is primarily silver-gray in color, with a series of distinct black spots along its flanks. A unique feature is the presence of a wide, dark band across its upper caudal (tail) fin.
Diet and feeding
Zooplankton, small crustaceans (such as mysid shrimp), and fish eggs in both wild and aquarium environments.
Difficulty and care for the Pearl 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 disorder, Columnaris disease, Velvet disease
Origin and habitat
Roa excelsa is naturally found in the coastal waters of Western Australia, specifically within the Indian Ocean, primarily along the Ningaloo Reef and Coral Bay regions. The depth range for this species is typically between 10 to 45 meters.
Log Pearl 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 Pearl Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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