Burgess Butterflyfish

Burgess Butterflyfish (Chaetodon burgessi). It is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its elegant black and white coloration, diagonal banding, and bold contrasting patterns that make it stand out in any marine setup.

Males typically do not show visible sexual dimorphism, although some aquarists report subtle differences in size or behavior during courtship. Females/juveniles closely resemble adults, though juveniles may appear slightly more translucent and develop their full coloration as they mature.

They reach about 5.5 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 70 gallons.

Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, open swimming space, and moderate water flow, stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many species are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, marine algae, high-quality pellets and flakes, and sponge-based frozen foods, and with proper care this fish makes a standout addition to the 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.