Marcella Butterflyfish

Marcella Butterflyfish (Prognathodes marcellae) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its elegant black-and-white vertical banding, elongated snout, and graceful body shape. This rare butterflyfish is sought after by aquarists for its unique coloration and distinctive patterns, making it a standout species in display tanks.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may develop bolder coloration and pattern intensity during maturity, while females/juveniles remain smaller with more subtle banding until fully grown. They reach about 5–6 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 100 gallons, providing both swimming space and hiding areas.

Provide ample live rock with caves and crevices, open swimming areas, and secure hiding spots, along with a tight-fitting lid as they may jump if startled. Keep stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4) for long-term health and success.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets. With proper care, the Marcella Butterflyfish becomes a rare and striking showpiece in any advanced 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.