Hooded Butterflyfish

My species/animal is a fish — the Hooded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon larvatus). It is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking black “hood” covering the front half of its body contrasted with a bright yellow rear, unique facial markings, and bold pattern that adds dramatic flair to any marine aquarium.

Males typically appear very similar to females with no obvious sexual dimorphism, though some behavioral differences during mating may occur. Females/juveniles share the same coloration and pattern, with juveniles sometimes exhibiting softer hues that become more vivid with maturity.

They reach about 7 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons.

Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and shelter, open swimming space, and a soft sandbed, 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, brine shrimp, copepods, sponge-based frozen foods, and high-quality pellets and flakes. Occasional grazing on algae and sessile invertebrates may occur, 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.