Common name: Gueze's Butterflyfish

General Information

The Gueze's Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Prognathodes guezei, is a rare and intriguing species within the aquarium trade. This butterflyfish is notable for its striking black and white coloration, which makes it a visually captivating addition to any marine setup. However, its rarity in the wild and the aquarium trade means it is not commonly seen in home aquariums.

Named in honor of the French biologist Paul Guézé, this species is found in the deep waters of the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around the Reunion and Mauritius islands. Its elusive nature and deep-water habitat make it a challenging species to collect, contributing to its rarity in the trade.

Care

Due to its deep-water origins, the Gueze's Butterflyfish requires specific care conditions that mimic its natural habitat. It thrives in aquariums with stable water conditions and a well-established live rock setup. The tank should be spacious enough to allow for swimming and exploration, with plenty of hiding spots to provide security.

While not commonly kept in home aquariums, those who do attempt to keep this species should ensure a diet that includes a variety of marine-based foods to meet its nutritional needs. Regular monitoring of water parameters is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of this sensitive species.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Gueze's Butterflyfish are likely to feed on small invertebrates and coral polyps. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Supplementing their diet with marine algae and specialized butterflyfish pellets can help meet their nutritional requirements.

Feeding should occur once or twice daily, with portions adjusted based on the fish's size and activity level. Care should be taken to avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

Gueze's Butterflyfish are generally peaceful but can be shy, especially when first introduced to a new environment. They may take some time to acclimate to aquarium life and can be sensitive to changes in water quality.

Due to their specialized diet and care requirements, they are best kept in species-specific tanks or with other peaceful, non-aggressive fish. Avoid housing them with aggressive species that may outcompete them for food or cause stress.

Reproduction

Little is known about the breeding habits of Prognathodes guezei in captivity. Like many butterflyfish, they are likely to exhibit complex courtship behaviors and require specific environmental conditions to encourage spawning. Successful breeding in home aquariums is rare, and more research is needed to understand their reproductive biology fully.

Health and Common Issues

Gueze's Butterflyfish can be prone to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet, particularly if stressed or kept in suboptimal conditions. Quarantine new additions and maintain high water quality to minimize health risks.

When selecting a Gueze's Butterflyfish, look for individuals that are active and have clear eyes and intact fins. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have visible signs of disease.

Habitat

This species is native to the Western Indian Ocean, specifically around the Reunion and Mauritius islands. It inhabits deep-water coral reefs, often found at depths ranging from 60 to 150 meters (200 to 500 feet). The deep, cool waters of its natural habitat mean that it requires stable, cooler temperatures in captivity compared to other butterflyfish species.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Prognathodes guezei is not well-documented, primarily due to its deep-water habitat and rarity. However, like many reef species, it may be susceptible to threats such as habitat degradation and climate change. Hobbyists interested in keeping this species should prioritize captive-bred individuals when possible and support conservation efforts aimed at protecting reef habitats.