Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish

My species/animal is a fish — the Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish (Chaetodon decussatus). It is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its unique black and white lattice-like crosshatch pattern covering its body, elegant body shape, and moderate size, making it a visually striking addition to marine aquariums.

Males typically show no obvious external sexual dimorphism and look very similar to females, though males may exhibit slightly more territorial behavior during breeding periods. Females/juveniles share the same coloration and pattern, with juveniles sometimes showing less intense markings that develop fully as they mature.

They reach about 6 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons.

Provide ample live rock for grazing and shelter, open swimming space, and a sandy substrate, 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 foods, finely chopped seafood, and occasionally high-quality pellets and flakes, 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.