Twospot Highfin Butterflyfish

Twospot Highfin Butterflyfish (Coradion altivelis) is a peaceful species that is not reef-safe, admired for its delicate silver-white body accented by vertical orange-brown bars, an elongated high dorsal fin, and two distinctive dark spots—one on the upper back and another near the tail base—that give the species its name. Males typically are similar in appearance to females but may display slightly more pronounced coloration and territorial behavior during breeding, while females/juveniles are generally smaller and have less developed coloration and fin extension. They reach about 6 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons.

Provide plenty of live rock for grazing, some hiding spots, and open swimming space, mimicking their natural reef and lagoon environments. Maintain stable water conditions: salinity between 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH between 8.1–8.4. A secure lid is essential, as this species is known to jump when startled.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, high-quality pellets, and sponge- or algae-based foods to replicate their natural feeding habits. This species feeds on coral polyps and invertebrates in the wild, making it unsuitable for reef aquariums.

With its graceful appearance, unique markings, and peaceful temperament, the Twospot Highfin Butterflyfish makes a beautiful and serene addition to a fish-only or FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) marine setup when given proper care and an appropriate environment.

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.