Hemitaurichthys zoster
We'll contact you when this item is back in stock
Currently Out of Stock
Check back soon or contact us for availability
The Black Pyramid Butterflyfish is a rare and dramatic color form of the Pyramid Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster). While the standard pyramid butterfly is white with a bold black triangular wedge on the body, this dark morph displays a much heavier black or charcoal coloration, often covering most of the body with lighter white or silver accents toward the face and fins. The tall, triangular body shape gives the fish a sharp, geometric look that immediately stands out in large reef aquariums. Adults typically reach 6–7 inches, making them a medium-sized but visually dominant butterflyfish.
Black Pyramid Butterflyfish require a large, stable aquarium with ample open swimming space to thrive. A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended, with larger systems preferred for pairs or groups. The aquascape should include reef-style rockwork for visual security without overly restricting swimming areas. They prefer stable reef water parameters, including temperatures between 75–78°F, a specific gravity of 1.024–1.026, and low nutrient levels. Moderate to strong water flow and high oxygenation are important, as they naturally inhabit plankton-rich reef slopes. While moderately hardy once acclimated, they are sensitive to stress caused by cramped conditions or fluctuating water quality, making proper tank size and stability critical.
The Black Pyramid Butterflyfish is a planktivore that feeds primarily on zooplankton in the water column rather than grazing on corals or benthic organisms. In captivity, it adapts very well to a varied diet of frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped marine seafood, and high-quality pellets or flakes formulated for marine carnivores. Because this species is an active, open-water swimmer with a fast metabolism, it benefits from multiple small feedings throughout the day rather than a single large feeding. Once established, it is typically a strong and eager feeder, making it one of the easier butterflyfish to maintain long term.