Hemitaurichthys polylepis
| Identification | A distinctive butterfly — a white triangular “pyramid” across the flank set against a dusky head, with a bright yellow dorsal, tail and rear. Forms large midwater shoals on the reef. |
|---|---|
| Maximum Length | about 7″ |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific |
| Minimum Tank Size | 125 Gal. |
| Reef Compatibility | Reef safe (with caution) |
Behavior
Unusual among butterflies in being a planktivore rather than a polyp-grazer, which makes it one of the few genuinely reef-suitable Chaetodontids. Hardy and active, it is happiest in a shoal hovering in the current.
Diet & Feeding
Planktivore and omnivore. Offer mysis, enriched brine, marine preparations and pellets a few times a day.
Cautions
Generally leaves corals alone, though the odd individual picks — hence the “with caution.” Needs strong flow, open swimming room and ideally a group. A jumper.