Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the central Pacific.
- Named for the distinctive white triangular "pyramid" shape on its body, contrasting with a yellow dorsal area.
- A peaceful and social species, often found in large schools over outer reef slopes and drop-offs.
- Highly adaptable and resilient, making it one of the best butterflyfish species for aquariums.
- Prefers an open water environment but requires rock structures for shelter and security.
Feeding
- Omnivorous diet, primarily feeding on plankton and algae in the wild.
- Readily consumes a variety of aquarium foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp.
- Thrives on a mix of meaty and vegetable-based foods to maintain its health and coloration.
- Requires frequent feedings (at least 2-3 times per day) due to its high metabolism.
- Can benefit from supplemental feedings of marine algae or spirulina-based foods.
Habitat
- Commonly found in outer reef slopes, near strong currents where plankton is abundant.
- Prefers open swimming areas but will utilize rock formations for occasional shelter.
- Requires a well-established aquarium with excellent water quality and stable conditions.
- Best suited for large tanks (minimum 120 gallons) due to its active swimming behavior.
- Moderate to strong water flow is recommended to replicate its natural habitat.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
- Ideal pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Requires stable water conditions and a well-maintained aquarium.
- One of the more disease-resistant butterflyfish but still benefits from a varied diet and clean environment.
- Regular water changes and high-quality filtration ensure long-term health.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful and suitable for community reef tanks.
- Best kept in groups of three or more, as it thrives in social settings.
- Compatible with other peaceful reef fish such as tangs, wrasses, and clownfish.
- Reef-safe, as it does not typically nip at corals, unlike other butterflyfish species.
- May be intimidated by highly aggressive fish but does well in a mixed-reef environment.
Aquarium Behavior
- Highly active swimmer, often seen cruising the mid-to-upper water column.
- Engages in social interactions with tank mates, especially when housed in groups.
- Curious and intelligent, quickly adapting to new environments.
- Non-aggressive but may become shy if housed with overly boisterous tank mates.
- Thrives in an environment with stable water conditions, frequent feedings, and ample swimming space.