© Diego Delso / CC BY-SA 4.0Pyramid Butterflyfish
The Pyramid Butterflyfish is a striking yellow-and-white species named for the triangular white patch on its flanks that resembles a pyramid, set off by a dark head. Unlike most butterflyfish, which nibble at coral polyps, this species feeds mainly on zooplankton in the water column, making it one of the few butterflyfish safe to keep in a reef aquarium. It is peaceful by nature and one of the rare butterflyfish that can be kept in groups, forming lively schools that bring constant motion to the mid-water zone. Combined with its beginner-friendly reputation, it is a popular pick for reefkeepers wanting color and movement without risking their coral.
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Apply as a breederPyramid Butterflyfish key facts
- Care level
- Beginner-friendly
- Lifespan
- 8-15 years
- Size
- Up to 18cm
- Temperature
- 22〜26℃
- Diet
- Frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp), algae-based pellets, dried seaweed
- Notes
- Shy and hides after introduction; give it a calm setting. Watch for marine ich and quarantine first.
- Container & Tank
- A tank of 470L or more is recommended, with plenty of live rock for shelter and open midwater swimming space.
- Water Temperature & Quality
- 22-26C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Keep water stable.
- Diet & Feeding
- A plankton feeder. Offer vitamin-enriched brine and mysis shrimp, algae-containing frozen foods, pellets and dried algae several times a day.
- Tank Mates & Compatibility
- Peaceful; can be kept singly, in pairs or in small groups. Does not harm corals or invertebrates, so suits reef tanks.
About Pyramid Butterflyfish
A yellow-and-white butterflyfish with a dark head and pyramid-shaped white markings. A plankton feeder that's reef-safe and enjoys schooling — a beginner-friendly choice for saltwater tanks.
7 things to know before welcoming a Pyramid Butterflyfish
1Coral-Safe Feeding Habits
Pyramid Butterflyfish feed mainly on zooplankton rather than coral polyps, unlike most of their relatives. This makes them one of the few butterflyfish that can be safely kept in a reef tank.
2Can Be Kept in Groups
This is one of the few butterflyfish that can be kept in groups within the same tank. A small school tends to settle in more calmly than a single fish, so plan for extra swimming space if keeping several together.
3Needs Frequent Feeding
Because they naturally feed on plankton, multiple small feedings per day are recommended until they adjust to prepared foods. Once trained onto pellets or frozen foods, day-to-day feeding becomes much easier.
4Prefers Stable Water Quality
Like butterflyfish in general, this species is sensitive to sudden swings in water quality or temperature. Careful acclimation and introducing it to a well-established tank go a long way toward keeping it healthy.
5Grows Up to 18cm
Pyramid Butterflyfish can grow up to about 18cm. Plan your tank size and aquascape with this adult size in mind from the start.
6Choose Peaceful Tankmates
Pyramid Butterflyfish are relatively peaceful, but small crustaceans that fit in their mouth may be eaten. Choose tankmates of similar size and temperament for a stable community.
7Approachable for Beginners
This species is generally considered beginner-friendly, making it a reasonable choice even for those new to saltwater fishkeeping. That said, careful acclimation and stable water quality remain essential, as with any marine fish.
Frequently asked questions about Pyramid Butterflyfish
- Q.Can it be kept in a reef tank with corals?
- A.Yes. Since it feeds mainly on zooplankton rather than coral polyps, it doesn't harm corals the way many butterflyfish do, making it one of the more reef-safe choices in the family.
- Q.Can it be kept alone, or does it need company?
- A.A single fish can be kept without issue. That said, it's one of the few butterflyfish that thrives in small groups, so keeping several together is worth considering if your tank has the space.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.It can reach up to about 18cm at full size. Choose your tank size with this adult length in mind.
- Q.Is this a good choice for someone new to saltwater fish?
- A.Its care level is generally rated beginner-friendly, so it's a reasonably approachable species. Basic care like careful acclimation and stable water quality is still just as important as with any marine fish.
- Q.Is this species subject to any international trade regulations?
- A.The Pyramid Butterflyfish is not subject to CITES.
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