Vagabond Butterflyfish

Vagabond Butterflyfish (Chaetodon vagabundus) is a peaceful species that is not reef-safe, admired for its striking coloration, with a white body covered in crisscrossing black diagonal lines, bold vertical black bands on the eye and tail, and yellow accents on the dorsal and caudal fins. Males typically exhibit similar coloration to females but may grow slightly larger and show more dominant behavior during spawning, while females/juveniles are slightly smaller and display the same pattern with slightly duller hues until fully mature. They reach about 9 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 125 gallons.

Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, a soft sandbed, and large open swimming space, as this species is active and often found cruising reef slopes in the wild. Maintain stable water parameters: salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, and pH 8.1–8.4. A secure lid is highly recommended, as Vagabond Butterflyfish may jump, especially when startled or newly introduced.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, copepods, high-quality marine pellets, and algae-based or sponge-enriched foods. In the wild, they feed on coral polyps, small invertebrates, and algae, making them unsuitable for reef tanks.

With their graceful swimming, peaceful disposition, and unique crosshatched patterning, the Vagabond Butterflyfish makes a stunning addition to a well-maintained 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.