Banded Butterflyfish

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive vertical black-and-white bands, laterally compressed body, and graceful swimming style. Native to the tropical Western Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, this species is commonly found around coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may exhibit stronger territorial behaviors during spawning, while females/juveniles remain smaller with less pronounced markings. They reach about 6–7 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons, though larger setups are recommended for pairs or community environments.

Provide ample live rock with hiding spots, open swimming space, and a secure lid, since butterflyfish are active swimmers and may jump if startled. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, pH 8.1–8.4) for long-term success.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, chopped seafood, high-quality marine pellets, and some algae-based foods. With proper care, this strikingly patterned fish makes a beautiful and eye-catching addition to the marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.