Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Yellow Pyramid Butterfly, also referred to as the Yellow Zoster Butterfly, are found in large shoals among reefs of the Indian Ocean. Its primary name comes from its yellow fins meeting with the white coloration on its body to form a triangle, or pyramid-like, shape. Unlike most butterflyfish, the Yellow pyramid butterfly can be quite hardy if acclimated properly into the correct environment. Feeding primarily on plankton, the Yellow pyramid butterfly can be added “with caution” into a reef aquarium, as some individuals have been observed to ocassionally nip at certain soft corals such as Xenia spp. This butterflyfish does best when kept in pairs or a group. An adult Yellow pyramid butterfly can reach a size of approximately 6″.
Diet Requirements: The Yellow pyramid butterfly is an omnivore. A diet consisting of various frozen meaty preparations such as brine shrimp, spirulina brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other mixed foods with herbivore components will maintain optimal health, immune function and coloration. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements, as butterflyfish have high metabolisms. Multiple, smaller feedings throughout the day could also benefit this species.
Care Requirements: An established, minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single individual, or pair of, Yellow pyramid butterflyfish; a larger group will require more space. The Yellow pyramid butterfly will appreciate some live rock and crevices to swim through and take refuge. Butterflyfish are sensitive to nitrite and ammonia spikes, and an established tank will also offer more abundant microfauna to forage on. Given their peaceful nature and dietary demands, the Yellow pyramid butterfly should not be kept with overly aggressive species or species that can grossly outcompete it in food resources. Compatability with other butterfly species is variable. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″
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Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase size is approximate.
