More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 18.0cm / 7.09inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with luck |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Hemitaurichthys polylepis, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. With its striking yellow and white coloration, this species is a member of the Butterflyfish family known for their vibrant patterns and colors. They are distinguishable from Angelfish due to the absence of spines on each side of their head.
Aquarium Suitability and Demands
Considered suitable for aquariums, these fish require careful attention. They can be kept in large numbers or solitary and prefer multiple hiding spots amongst live rocks. Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish should be fed a varied diet multiple times a day, especially when first introduced into the aquarium. They are peaceful but may act shy initially and need time to acclimatize.
Care and Hardiness
Being hardy fish, Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish thrive in aquariums with plenty of space for swimming. They are best suited to settings with stable water conditions, including a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH between 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity from 1.020 to 1.025.
Reef Suitability
Reef safe with caution, these fish can be compatible with reef environments. However, there is a chance that they may nibble on clams, including Tridacna species, and feed on tubeworms.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish, ensure there are adequate hiding places, such as live rocks. A tank size of at least 500 liters is recommended, along with a varied diet including larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, other invertebrates, and zooplankton.
Behaviour
These fish are peaceful and can coexist with other species, but it is advisable to introduce more aggressive fish only after the Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish have acclimatized. They enjoy swimming freely in larger tanks with open spaces.
Feeding and Diet
Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish have a varied diet, including larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, other invertebrates, and zooplankton. Feeding should be done several times a day, with a focus on providing a diverse range of nutritious options that mimic their natural diet.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Pacific Ocean, Yellow Pyramid Butterflyfish can be found from Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean to Indonesia, the Hawaiian, Line, and Pitcairn islands, and ranging north to southern Japan and south to Rowley Shoals and New Caledonia. In the Indian Ocean, they are replaced by Hemitaurichthys zoster.