Dot Dash Punctato Butterflyfish 

Also known as Punctato Butterflyfish, Spotband Butterflyfish

The Dot Dash Punctato Butterflyfish is an attractive and relatively hardy species displaying distinctive dotted and dashed patterns across its yellow-white body. This peaceful butterflyfish is more adaptable to aquarium life than many relatives, making it suitable for moderately experienced marine aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon punctatofasciatus
• Common Names: Punctato Butterflyfish, Spotband Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and relatively shy
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; easier than many butterflyfish species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock formations creating caves and swim-throughs. This species appreciates peaceful environments with minimal aggression. Benefits from established tanks.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain stable conditions for this species.

Diet & Feeding

Dot Dash Punctato Butterflyfish are omnivores requiring varied nutrition. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets (occasional supplement)
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally adapts to prepared foods more readily than obligate coral feeders

Notes & Considerations

• More adaptable to aquarium life than many butterflyfish species.
• The distinctive pattern of dots and dashes creates a unique appearance.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates but may be territorial toward other butterflyfish.
• May nip at soft corals, zoanthids, and tube worms; monitor in reef aquariums.
• Relatively shy; does best in peaceful community tanks.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Active during the day; hides at night in rock crevices.
• Can be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously.
• Does best when not housed with aggressive or boisterous species.
• Smaller adult size makes it suitable for moderately sized aquariums.

Why Choose a Quarantined Dot Dash Punctato 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 attractive and peaceful species.