Pyramid Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys polylepis)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Hard care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Pyramid Butterflyfish are yellow with distinctive black-outlined triangular markings that form a pyramid or arrow-like pattern on their body. They have a high-backed, laterally compressed body with pointed snout typical of the Chaetodontidae family. Adults typically reach 9 inches and display elegant geometric patterning with white or pale underbelly.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied omnivorous diet including high-quality flaked foods, mysis shrimp, small crustaceans, and some vegetable matter. Offer multiple small meals daily to mimic natural grazing behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Pyramid Butterflyfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Ich, marine velvet, nutritional deficiency, stress-related disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesian waters, and extending from the Red Sea to Hawaii.
Log Pyramid 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 Pyramid Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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