Care
The Caribbean LongnoseButterflyfish is known from deep coral-rich reefs and drop-offs, to a depth of90m (295ft). This species is normally solitary, but is sometimes seen in pairs,feeding on a variety of small invertebrates. Unlike many of the otherchaetodontids, Caribbean Longnose Butterflyfish do not pick parasites from thebodies of other fishes. Although fish from the
Prognathodes genus are often regarded as fairly difficult to keep,this particular species is one of the hardiest, generally acclimatising welland readily accepting most foods offered; nevertheless, we do only recommended thisspecies for advanced aquarists. The Caribbean Longnose Butterflyfish is suitedto large, deep, mature aquaria with plenty of live rock that forms dark nooksand crannies. Being a deepwater species, these fish do not always adapt well tointense illumination, so if the tank is brightly lit, ensure there are numerousoverhangs and rocky caves where the fish can spend a good deal of time,browsing for small invertebrate life in and out of the rockwork. The elongatedsnout allows the butterflyfish to search for food morsels deep amongst thedécor. Many soft corals are safe enough with a well-fed Caribbean Longnose Butterflyfishin the tank, as are small-polyped-stony (SPS) corals; however, most specimenswill nibble at feather dusters, sponges, gorgonians, polychaete worms, seaurchin feet, anemones, and long-polyped-stony (LPS) corals and are capable of inflictinga fair bit of damage. As with all butterflyfishes, this species demandsexcellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, with areasof decent current. Keep only one specimen per tank, and not with any otherbutterflyfish species, to avoid territorial aggression. Tankmates should be ofa peaceful nature, otherwise this small, shy fish may not feel confident enoughto venture out for food. When challenged by a boisterous fish, rather than immediatelyretreating, the Caribbean Longnose Butterflyfish tends to face its aggressorwith all of its stout spines angled towards it. Careful selection of tankmatesshould ensure that the butterfly does not feel constantly intimidated andstressed. You may also see this fish on sale as the Atlantic LongnoseButterflyfish. In the Caribbean, this species is known locally as theButterbun.
Feeding
Offer a wide variety of foods,fed in small amounts several times per day. Frozen foods such as Mysis shrimp,vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped clam/mussel/cockle/crab/shrimp/squid etc. should be given. Ensure the largerfoodstuffs are chopped into small enough pieces on account of butterflyfishhaving tiny mouths. Garlic enriched foods can be very beneficial for thesettling in phase.
Breeding
The Caribbean LongnoseButterflyfish has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, this speciesforms distinct pairs and eggs are scattered in the open water.
