Pyramid Butterfly (Hemitaurichthys Polylepis)

Pyramid Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys polylepis)

The Pyramid Butterflyfish is widely regarded as the "Holy Grail" for reef keepers who love the aesthetic of butterflyfish but fear for their corals. Unlike the majority of its cousins, which are notorious coral-nippers, the Pyramid is a planktivore. In the wild—including the deep reef slopes of Indonesia—they form massive, shimmering schools in the open water to feed on passing zooplankton.

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Key Information

• Common Names: Pyramid Butterflyfish, Yellow Pyramid Butterfly

• Scientific Name: Hemitaurichthys polylepis

• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Indonesia, Philippines, Hawaii, to the Line Islands)

• Max Size: 18 cm (approx. 7 inches)

• Lifespan: 7–10 years

• Temperament: Peaceful; very social

• Diet: Omnivore / Planktivore – Open water feeder

• Care Level: Moderate (due to high metabolism and oxygen needs)

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Appearance & Identification

The Pyramid Butterflyfish is easily identified by its bold, geometric color blocking:

• The "Pyramid": The body features a brilliant white center section in the shape of a triangle or pyramid, flanked by vivid yellow on the top and bottom corners.

• The Head: Features a dark brown-to-black mask over the head, which helps camouflage the eye from predators.

• The Fins: The dorsal and anal fins are bright yellow, continuing the geometric pattern.

• Body Shape: It has a more "triangular" and compressed body than the average butterflyfish, built for hovering in high-current areas.

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Behaviour & Tank Compatibility

• The Reef-Safe Butterfly: This is one of the few butterflyfish that is 100% Reef Safe. They generally show zero interest in coral polyps, clams, or ornamental shrimp, as their mouths and digestive systems are designed for small floating organisms.

• Social Schooler: Unlike many territorial butterflies, Pyramids are gregarious. They are much more confident and active when kept in groups of 3 or more.

• Mannerisms: They are very peaceful and can be quite shy. They will not bother other fish, but they can be easily intimidated by aggressive tank mates.

• Tank Mates: Excellent with Anthias, Chromis, Tangs, and peaceful Wrasses. Avoid housing them with "bullies" like large Dottybacks or aggressive Triggers.

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Ideal Tank Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 285L (75 Gallons) for a single fish, but 475L+ (125+ Gallons) is highly recommended to house a small school.

• Water Flow: They thrive in high-flow, oxygen-rich environments. They are naturally found on reef walls where the current is strongest.

• Rockwork: Provide plenty of open swimming space in the upper two-thirds of the tank, with some caves at the bottom for them to retreat into at night.

• Water Quality: They are sensitive to poor water quality. Low nitrates and high stability are key to keeping their yellow color vibrant.

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Dietary Needs

Because they are active open-water swimmers, they have very high energy requirements:

• Feeding Frequency: Feed at least 3 times daily. They do not have large stomachs and cannot "gorge" on a single meal.

• Preferred Foods: Frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, Calanus, and finely chopped seafood.

• Dry Foods: They are usually very easy to transition to high-quality marine flakes and small pellets.

• Algae: While primarily meat-eaters, they do appreciate some spirulina or Nori to supplement their diet.

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Why Choose the Pyramid Butterfly?

The Pyramid Butterflyfish is for the hobbyist who wants the classic "Reef Look" without the risk to their coral collection. They provide incredible vertical movement and bright yellow color that stays in the open water column. For a large Indonesian-themed reef, a school of Pyramids is one of the most striking and sophisticated displays you can achieve.