Longsnout Butterflyfish

Longsnout Butterflyfish (Prognathodes aculeatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its elongated snout, bold black and yellow body pattern, and elegant fins, making it a striking addition to marine aquariums. Native to the Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, this species is known for its unique feeding behavior and preference for small invertebrates.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may exhibit territorial behavior, while females/juveniles remain smaller and less aggressive until maturity. They reach about 6 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 100 gallons, providing sufficient swimming space and stable conditions.

Provide plentiful live rock with crevices for hiding, open swimming areas, and a secure lid, as this species may jump if startled. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, pH 8.1–8.4) to ensure optimal health.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets. With proper care, the Longsnout Butterflyfish makes a distinctive and elegant centerpiece in a 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.