Spotband Butterflyfish
The Spotband Butterflyfish, also known as the Dot Dash Butterflyfish, Punctato Butterflyfish, or Spot-band Butterflyfish, has a yellow-tan body. As it matures, it becomes more yellow dorsally with about seven vertical dark stripes on the upper half of the body, with rows of dark spots below.
The aquarium for the Spotband Butterflyfish should be 70 gallons or larger, have numerous hiding places, and calm tank mates. It should not be housed in a reef aquarium since it tends to eat most invertebrates and nip at corals.
The diet for the Spotband Butterflyfish should consist of finely chopped seafood meats and algae-based meals.
| Approximate Purchase Size | Range |
|---|---|
| Small | 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″ |
| Medium | 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″ |
| Large | 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″ |
FAQ
What kind of tank environment is suitable for the Spotband Butterflyfish?
The Spotband Butterflyfish requires a tank of at least 70 gallons with plenty of hiding spots and calm, non-aggressive tank mates. It should not be kept in a reef aquarium due to its tendency to eat invertebrates and damage corals.
What does the Spotband Butterflyfish eat?
It should be fed finely chopped seafood meats and algae-based meals to maintain a balanced diet.
How does the coloration of the Spotband Butterflyfish change as it matures?
The fish starts with a yellow-tan body and becomes more yellow on the dorsal side as it matures, developing about seven vertical dark stripes on the upper half and rows of dark spots below.

Keith Cornish –
The Spotband Butterflyfish is a beautiful addition to my 90-gallon tank. It’s active but not aggressive and enjoys the algae-based food I offer. I’ve included plenty of caves and live rock for hiding. It’s been two months and it’s still vibrant and healthy.
Joseph Terry –
I bought this fish for my community tank, and it’s doing well. It’s not compatible with corals, so I removed the reef elements. The fish is active and shows clear markings as it grows. Feeding it a mix of seafood and algae flakes works well.
Evan Ellison –
The fish arrived healthy and has adapted quickly. I keep it in a 75-gallon tank with peaceful fish. It’s very colorful and shows distinct dark stripes. I’ve noticed it spends time near the back wall, which I assume is a hiding spot.