Spotfin Butterflyfish

Spotfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ocellatus) is a peaceful species that is not reef-safe, admired for its vibrant white to yellowish body, bold black eye stripe, and distinctive black spot near the rear dorsal fin (the “spotfin”). Males typically are similar in appearance to females but may display more vivid coloration during courtship, while females/juveniles are slightly smaller and may have a more translucent spot or less intense coloration. They reach about 6–7 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons.

Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, open swimming space, and a soft sandbed, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is necessary, as Spotfin Butterflyfish are prone to jumping when startled or stressed.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets, supplemented with sponge-based or algae-enriched foods. Since they are known to nip at corals and invertebrates, they are not considered reef-safe. However, with proper care, this eye-catching species makes a standout addition to a fish-only or FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) 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.