Black pyramid butterflyfish

The black pyramid butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster) is a marine reef fish of the family Chaetodontidae, native to the Indian Ocean. It has a bold pattern of black flanks framing a broad white triangular wedge, with a yellowish forehead, giving it a striking geometric look. Unlike many butterflyfish, it feeds heavily on zooplankton in open water above the reef. It is a peaceful, sociable species that naturally forms large aggregations and often does best when kept in small groups in spacious aquaria. A large tank with strong water movement, plenty of swimming space, and live rock for retreat suits its planktivorous lifestyle. Because it targets drifting plankton rather than coral polyps, it is one of the more reef-compatible butterflyfish. It should be offered frequent small feedings of enriched frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and other zooplankton substitutes. Captive breeding is not established.