Black Pyramid Butterflyfish 

Also known as Blacknose Butterflyfish, Threeband Butterflyfish

The Black Pyramid Butterflyfish is a striking species displaying bold black and white vertical bands with yellow accents. This moderately hardy butterflyfish adds dramatic contrast to aquariums and is more adaptable to captive life than many butterflyfish species.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hemitaurichthys zoster
• Common Names: Black Pyramid Butterflyfish, Blacknose Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 7 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; can be kept in small groups
• Reef Compatibility: Generally reef safe; primarily planktivorous
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; requires attention to feeding and water quality

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide open swimming areas with moderate rockwork for shelter. This planktivorous species spends more time in open water than typical butterflyfish. Benefits from good water flow.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • High water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate to strong water circulation These maintain the clean conditions this species prefers.

Diet & Feeding

Black Pyramid Butterflyfish are planktivores requiring frequent feedings. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, copepods, finely chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily minimum
• Special Note: More readily accepts prepared foods than coral-feeding butterflyfish

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Can Be Kept in Small Groups: Unlike most butterflyfish, this species naturally schools
• Peaceful Nature: Non-aggressive toward conspecifics and other species
• Introduce Simultaneously: If keeping multiple specimens, add together
• Group Size: 3-5 individuals create natural schooling behavior in larger tanks

Notes & Considerations

• More reef-safe than most butterflyfish due to a planktivorous diet; it does not typically nip corals.
• One of the few butterflyfish that can be kept in groups without aggression.
• The bold black and white pattern creates a striking visual impact.
• Active swimmer that utilizes mid to upper water column.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• May be shy initially but becomes bolder in groups or with dither fish.
• Does not require live rock for grazing like many butterflyfish.
• More adaptable to aquarium life than obligate coral feeders.

Why Choose a Quarantined Black Pyramid Butterflyfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this beautiful and social species.