Ocellate Butterflyfish

The Ocellate Butterflyfish (Parachaetodon ocellatus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking silver-white body marked with vertical dark bands, distinctive eyespot on the dorsal fin, and graceful swimming behavior. Males typically display similar patterns to females but may show slightly bolder markings during courtship, while females/juveniles are smaller with softer color contrasts and the same ocellated spot for camouflage. They reach about 7–8 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons.

Provide ample live rock for grazing and hiding, sandy substrate, and open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is recommended since butterflyfish may jump when startled.

Diet should consist of a varied mix of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, copepods, marine pellets, and some algae-based foods. With proper care, this fish makes a standout centerpiece in the aquarium, admired for both its beauty and unique ocellated marking.

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.