Chevron Butterflyfish

Chevron Butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifascialis) is a semi-aggressive species that is not reef-safe, admired for its striking yellow body crossed with three bold black chevron-shaped bands, elongated dorsal and anal fins, and slender profile. Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly coral-rich lagoons and reef slopes, this species is recognized for its bold patterning and specialized feeding habits.

Males typically grow slightly larger and exhibit more territorial behavior, especially around preferred coral feeding sites, while females/juveniles remain smaller with slightly less intense coloration and reduced territoriality. They reach about 8 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 125 gallons, with ample swimming space and stable conditions.

Provide plentiful live rock with branching corals for hiding and grazing, open swimming areas, and a secure lid, since butterflyfish can jump when startled. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, pH 8.1–8.4) to ensure long-term health.

Diet should consist of live or frozen mysis shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and specialized coral-feeding supplements, as this species naturally feeds on coral polyps in the wild. With proper care, the Chevron Butterflyfish makes a vivid and specialized centerpiece in a large marine aquarium, but it requires careful management due to its coral-feeding tendencies.

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.