Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus)

The Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Ghana Butterflyfish, Robustus Butterfly, or South African Butterflyfish is found on the southern tropical west coasts of Africa and ranges from Mauritania to the Gulf of Guinea.

Chaetodon robustus are a rare, elusive species that are normally encountered singly or in pairs over the inshore rocky reefs of their range at depths from 100 to over 230 feet, where they feed on crabs, crustaceans, worms, hydroids, and algae.

Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus)

Three Banded Butterflyfish have a silvery white body with three vertical dark brown bands; one through the eyes, the second at mid body, and the third along the rear portion of the body. Their scales are narrowly edged in yellow which gives them a copper like hue. The caudal fin is clear with tints of brown and the dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins are mostly yellow.

Juvenile Robustus Butterflyfish have more vibrant colors, with bold black bands contrasting against a yellow background. As they mature, the intensity of the colors are usually diminished, leading to a more subdued appearance.

The Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus) is sometimes confused in name with the extremely rare Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus) found in the Tasman Sea.

The Three Band Butterflyfish is best housed in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a crushed coralline gravel substrate, plenty of live rock having some micro and macroalgae growths, arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to graze and hide among, and a large area for free swimming.

Because cooler water temperatures are required to house this species, an aquarium chiller may be needed along with a good filtration system and skimmer to keep this species healthy.  They also require moderate to strong currents in at least a portion of their tank, which is why a wave maker or powerhead is recommended.

Chaetodon robustus are generally peaceful, but may harass similar looking fish. They enjoy swimming and do best in large, long, roomy tanks as pairs or with other peaceful reef species.

Because they nibble on corals, small invertebrates and crustaceans, Three Band Butterflyfish are not considered reef safe.

The Three Banded Butterflyfish has not been bred in an aquarium environment. They are broadcast spawners that form pairs during breeding.   After a brief mating ritual, the female releases her pelagic eggs into the water column at the same time the male releases his sperm to fertilize them. The buoyant fertilized eggs hatch into tiny larvae that float along the surface as plankton until they grow large enough to settle on the bottom and eventually become juveniles.

In their natural habitat, Three Banded Butterflyfish feed on a diverse range of hydroids, coral species, crabs, crustaceans, worms, and algae.   In an aquarium environment a well balanced variety of omnivore flake food, Spirulina, nori seaweed, fresh and frozen meaty seafoods that include Mysis shrimp, live fortified brine shrimp, chopped clam, black worms, and chopped shrimp should be offered several times daily.

Due to their limited collection area along the southern coasts of Africa, Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus) are a rare and elusive species in the aquarium trade. They are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts online from select suppliers and specialty fish shops from waiting lists at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: 2.25” – 3.25” $ 99.99 to $234.99; 3.5 – 4.75″ $288.99; over 4.75″ $426.99.

Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 71-80° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
Max size: 8″
Color Form: Black, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not Reef Safe
Origin: Mauritania to the Gulf of Guinea, Africa
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus)

Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Three-Striped Butterflyfish or Threeband Butterflyfish is a rarely imported species that is native to eastern Australia, Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island, and Elizabeth and Middleton Reefs in the Tasman Sea.

Three Band Butterflyfish are normally encountered in small groups or pairs on the coral rich lagoons and seaward reefs of their range at depths up to 100 feet, where they feed on zooplankton, coral polyps, and benthic invertebrates.

Three Band Butterflyfish are one of the most common butterflyfishes seen around Lord Howe Island where they are often found in large schools feeding on zooplankton in the water column in depths to 50 feet.

Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus)

Three Band Butterflyfish have a rounded white body with orange lips, a thin brownish orange vertical band through the eye, two broad black bands on the body and fins, a yellow orange bar above the pectoral fin, and a yellow to orange margin on the dorsal and anal fins that continues through the caudal fin.

Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus) are on occasion misidentified as the less rare Three Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon robustus) found along the southern coasts of Africa.

The Three Band Butterflyfish is best housed in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a crushed coralline gravel substrate, lots of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.

Because they eat coral polyps, nibble at ornamental clam mantles and consume benthic invertebrates in a reef system; Chaetodon tricinctus are not reef safe.

Three Band Butterflyfish are best maintained with other peaceful reef species that do not compete with them for food in the aquarium.

Because cooler water temperatures are required to maintain this species than what most tropical fish keeping enthusiasts normally maintain; an aquarium chiller is recommended along with a good filtration system and skimmer to keep this species healthy.

The Three Band Butterflyfish is a monogamous species that have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

Chaetodon tricinctus are broadcast spawners that form bonded pairs that last for life.   During the breeding season, pairs display an elaborate courtship that involves darting in between the corals and swimming in circles while rising up to the surface.   After the mating ritual, the female releases small pelagic eggs into the water column at the same time the male releases his sperm to fertilize them. The fertilized eggs hatch out into transparent tholichthys larvae that float along the surface in the plankton chain until they grow to sufficient size to settle on the bottom and eventually become juveniles.

In their natural habitat, Three Band Butterflyfish feed on coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates.

Like Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus), they can be fussy eaters in an aquarium environment.   A meaty diet of live fortified brine shrimp, Mysis, black worms (Lumbriculus variegatus), various frozen meaty seafoods, and flake foods containing Spirulina or Nori should be offered several times daily.

Offering a half of a live mussel or clam in the shell or pressing some soft foods into the crevices of a piece of old dead coral will often encourage finicky eaters to begin feeding.   Over time, frozen foods like Mysis and brine shrimp may be more readily accepted.

Three Band Butterflyfish (Chaetodon tricinctus) are exceptionally rare in the aquarium trade and seldom, if ever available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

Because they are restricted to Tasman Sea Islands, they are rarely imported and virtually unknown to both American and European aquarists.   Lord Howe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so collection in those waters are prohibited.

Specimens that have entered the tropical fish keeping hobby the United States were extremely expensive.

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy when acclimated
Water Conditions: 68-76°F, dKH 8 to 12 , pH 8.0 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.026
Max. Size: 5.9″
Color Form: Black, White, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: eastern Australia, Tasman Sea
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Expert

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus)

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Butterbun, the Portuguese Butterfly, School Mistress, and Banded Mariposa are found in tropical western Atlantic waters from Brazil to Bermuda and ranges from Massachusetts in the United States to Santa Catarina in Brazi; including the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, Bermuda, and Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago.

Although Banded Butterflyfish are normally encountered singly or in pairs on the coral reefs of their range; they are occasionally observed in small shoals of around twenty individuals feeding on plankton in the water column at depths to around 65 feet.   They are a diurnal species that are active during the day and sleep in cover at night.

Chaetodon striatus are a benthic species that have been recorded by divers at depths up to 225 feet where they feed on coral polyps, polychaete worms, tube worms, sea anemones, small invertebrates, crustaceans, and fish eggs.

In shallower depths, Banded Butterflyfish occasionally perform the duties of cleaner fish by removing parasites from parrot fish, grunts, surgeon fish, etc.

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus)

The Banded Butterflyfish has a silvery white body overlaid with small squiggly horizontal black lines, a vertical black bar that passes through the eye, two wider vertical black bars at mid-body, and a third wider bar that starts on the rear of the dorsal fin and continues to the caudal peduncle. The caudal, dorsal and pelvic fins are black with white edging and yellow highlights.

Juvenile Banded Butterflyfish have distinctly darker colors that

Juvenile Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus)

are brownish yellow instead of white, and a large, ringed, black eye spot at the base of their dorsal fins to confuse predators.

The Banded Butterflyfish is best housed in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a crushed coralline gravel substrate, lots of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.

Banded Mariposa are not reef safe.   They eat (LPS) coral polyps, nibbles at clams including all Tridacna species, relish tubeworms, and consume all crustaceans.

Banded Butterflyfish should only be housed with other peaceful species that do not compete with them for food.

Chaetodon striatus have not been bred in an aqurium environment.

Banded Butterflyfish are broadcast spawners that form monogamous pairs to breed.   The female releases 3,000-4,000 small pelagic eggs into the water column at the same time the male releases his sperm to fertilize them.   The fertilized eggs hatch in a day into transparent tholichthys larvae that have a bony armor sheath on the head.   The larvae float along the surface with the current along with other plankton until they reach the size of a dime, at which time they settle to the bottom during the night to eventually become juveniles.

In their natural habitat, Banded Butterflyfish have a variety of feeding strategies that can be challenging to replicate in an aquarium environment.

Some Banded Butterflyfish hunt for tiny plankton in schools over the reef; others singly or in pairs forage on the reef surface for crustaceans, while others engage in cleaning behavior with larger fish.

Because Chaetodon striatus mainly eat coral polyps, Zooplankton, and crustaceans; problems are usually encountered trying to provide them with alternative foods.

Initially, it is essential to have a variety of several suitable food types on hand such as live Mysis shrimp, artemia, larger shrimp, small crabs, Cyclops, copepods, live mussels, and even living corals to keep them alive.   These should be fed several times a day in small portions until the fish become accustomed to alternative types of food.

Offering a half of a live mussel or clam in the shell or pressing some soft foods into the crevices of a piece of old dead coral can sometimes encourage finicky eaters to begin feeding.

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus) are commonly available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online retailers, wholesalers, and transhippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1.5-2″; Medium: over 2-3″, Large: over 3-4.5″

Atlantic caught specimens start at around $34.99 for small, to around $39.99 for large.

Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Average
Water Conditions: 70°F to 79°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.026
Max size: 6.3″
Color Form: White, Black
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: Atlantic, Brazil
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5-7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Expert

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi)

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Raffle’s Butterflyfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Andaman Sea to the western Pacific and ranges from Sri Lanka to the Tuamotu Islands, north to southern Japan, south to the Great Barrier Reef, and from Palau (Belau) to the eastern Caroline Islands in Micronesia.

Latticed Butterflyfish are usually encountered in pairs around areas of rich coral growth in the lagoons, reef flats, and seaward reefs of their range at depths from 3 to 65 feet or more where they feed on octocorallian and scleractinian coral polyps, zoanthids, polychaetes, and sea anemones.

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi)

The Latticed Butterflyfish has a yellow body color with dark margins on the scales that give it a lattice like appearance, a vertical black band that intersects the eye, and a blue patch on the forehead. A dark vertical black band runs through the center of the dorsal fin and sub marginally on the dorsal and ventral fins.

Juveniles have a dark spot on the lower rear portion of the dorsal fin.  There are no external

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi)

differences between males and females.

When asleep or stressed, the Latticed Butterflyfish develops a dark spot on the front of the body.

Latticed Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that can be housed in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a sand or coralline gravel substrate, plenty of aged live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide among, and sufficient free swimming space.   Because they prey on the polyps of hard and soft corals and anemones, they are not considered to be reef safe and should only be housed in FOWLR aquariums with other peaceful species.

Because they usually become territorial and aggressive; Latticed Butterflyfish should not be housed with other species of butterflyfish or other aggressive species.

They can be kept in pairs with other peaceful species in large tanks.

Like most other butterflyfish species, Chaetodon rafflesi are sensitive to variations in water quality and require a good protein skimmer, filtration system, and a wave maker or powerhead to provide moderate water movement in at least one area of the tank.

Raffle’s Butterflyfish have rarely been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.

Chaetodon rafflesii are pelagic spawners that during the breeding season, form monogamous pairs to mate.   The female releases small, buoyant eggs into the water column where the male immediately fertilizes them. The eggs become part of the plankton chain and eventually hatch out into small tholichthys larvae that in time become juveniles. Raising the larvae in an aquarium environment is complex and not commonly done by tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

In their natural habitat, Latticed Butterflyfish feed primarily on coral polyps and small invertebrates.   In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a varied diet that includes frozen or live brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped seafoods.   Feeding them small amounts several times a day instead of one large feeding is recommended.

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi) are not common in the aquarium trade.   They are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts online from select suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3 1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″. Prices for small Indonesian specimens begin at around $40.00.

Latticed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesi)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 75-81° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 6″
Color Form: Black, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Not Reef Safe
Origin: Indo-Pacific, Great Barrier Reef, French Polynesia
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis) pair

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Dot Dash
Butterflyfish, Dot-and-dash Butterflyfish, Spotbanded Butterflyfish, Pelewensis Butterflyfish, and erroneously the Punctato Butterflyfish, is found on coral reefs in the South Pacific Ocean.

In the southern Pacific Ocean its range extends from Papua New Guinea to the Tuamotu Archipelago.   It is abundant in the Coral Sea and on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia where they can be found as far south as central New South Wales and Lord Howe Island.

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis)

Sunset Butterflyfish have a mustard yellow to orange body color with black upward oriented diagonal stripes across the rear portion that begin as spots at the head, and a black edged vertical gold bar that passes through the eyes. They have a black spot on the forehead in front of the dorsal fin.   The base of the caudal fin is bright orange, and the margins of the fins are yellow. There are no distinguishable physical differences between males and females.

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis) closely resemble the Punctato Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus) which they occasionally hybridize with in the southern part of their range.

Sunset Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that are normally encountered in the clear waters of the lagoons and outer seaward reefs of their range, among rocky areas with abundant coral growth at depths of at least 150 feet, where they feed on coral polyps and a few small benthic invertebrates.   Sunset Butterflyfish are occasionally found swimming as pairs along the outer subtidal reef flats, especially during breeding.

Sunset Butterflyfish are best housed in an established FOWLR tank of at least 75 gallon capacity with a fine coralline gravel or sand substrate, plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among.   Because they need areas in the tank with moderate to high water flow, a wave maker or power head is recommended.

Because Sunset Butterflyfish feed largely on coral polyps, soft corals, tubeworms, and most benthic invertebrates; they are not considered reef safe.

Chaetodon pelewensis are a peaceful species that get along well with other non aggressive species like Clownfish (Ocellaris Clownfish), Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.), Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), Orchid Dottybacks (Pseudochromis fridmani), and some Dwarf Angelfish.   They may exhibit territorial behavior towards conspecifics or similar looking species, especially when housed in smaller tanks.

Sunset Butterflyfish are oviparous, monogamous, and breed in pairs.   Spawning usually occur at dusk.  After a brief courtship ritual, the pair ascends into the water column to release a white cloud of eggs and sperm.   The small, buoyant eggs hatch out within 24 hours into larvae that drift with the currents until they grow into juveniles.

In the southern part of their range, they will occasionally form mixed pairs and hybridize with the Punctato Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus).

In their natural habitat, Sunset Butterflyfish feed on coral polyps, a variety of small benthic invertebrates, and filamentous algae.   In an aquarium environment they are generally shy, deliberate feeders that that initially require a variety of fresh, frozen, and dried foods to get them eating.

Their diet should include finely chopped seafoods, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, krill, Mysis shrimp, high quality marine omnivore flakes or pellets, spirulina, and other seaweed based foods fed 2 or 3 times a day.

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online retailers, wholesalers, and transhippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″.

Prices for small specimens start at around $59.99 and vary according to size and area of collection.

Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis)

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72°F to 78°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 4.75″
Color Form: Yellow, Black, Orange
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef compatable
Origin: Southern Pacific, Cook Islands
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Dot Dash Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus)

The Punctato Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus), known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Dot Dash Butterflyfish, Spotband Butterflyfish, or Spot-band Butterflyfish, are found in the Indo West Pacific Ocean from Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean to the Line Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to the Rowley Shoals and the northern Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and throughout Micronesia.

In the Indian Ocean, Chaetodon punctatofasciatus is “replaced” by its close relative the Peppered Butterflyfish (Chaetodon guttatissimus). Both species occur from Christmas Island to Bali.

Punctato Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that is normally encountered in the clear waters of the lagoons and outer seaward reef flats of their range, among rocky areas with abundant coral growth at depths to 150 feet, where they feed on filamentous algae, coral polyps, and a variety of small benthic invertebrates. Spotband Butterflyfish are occasionally found swimming as pairs along the outer subtidal reef flats, especially during breeding.

Juvenile Punctato Butterflyfish are secretive and are usually found in shallower waters.

Dot Dash Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus)

Punctato Butterflyfish have a pale gray to brownish yellow body color, with seven vertical rows of dark gray to black spots interspersed with yellow and aligned as stripes along the upper portion of the body that morphs into horizontal rows of dark spots on the lower portion.   An orange bar edged in black runs across the eye, the dorsal fin has a yellow margin, the caudal peduncle is colored a bright orange, and the rear edge of the caudal fin is transparent. There are no distinguishable physical differences between males and females.

Juveniles Punctato Butterflies exhibit a vibrant coloration with bold black spots and yellowish orange bands on a white to yellowish tan background. Their colors intensify as they mature and the patterns become more pronounced.

In the southern part of their range, Spotband Butterflyfish occasionally hybridize with the Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis).

The Punctato Butterflyfish is best housed in an established FOWLR tank of at least 75 gallon capacity with a fine coralline gravel or sand substrate, plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among. They should have areas in the tank with moderate to high water flow.

Because Punctato Butterflyfish eat stony polyps, soft corals, tube worms, ornamental shrimp, anemones, and most invertebrates; they are not considered reef safe.

Chaetodon punctatofasciatus are peaceful and get along well with other non aggressive species like Clownfish (Ocellaris Clownfish), Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.), Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), Orchid Dottybacks (Pseudochromis fridmani), and Dwarf Angelfish.

Although the Punctato Butterfly is generally peaceful, they can exhibit territorial behavior towards conspecifics or similar looking species, especially in smaller systems.

Punctato Butterflyfish have been bred by commercial aquaculturists but rearing the larvae is challenging, which is why they have not been bred in a home aquarium environment.

Chaetodon punctatofasciatus are oviparous and monogamous, breeding in pairs. In the southern part of their range, they will occasionally form mixed pairs and hybridize with the Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis).

In their natural habitat, Punctato Butterflyfish feed primarily on coral polyps and a variety of benthic invertebrates.   In an aquarium environment, their diet should include a variety of meaty and algae based foods. Mysis and vitamin enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafoods, high quality marine flakes or pellets, spirulina, nori, seaweed, marine algae, and algae based foods are all eagerly accepted and should be fed 2 to 3 times a day.

Punctato Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus) are commonly available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online retailers, wholesalers, and transshippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″.

Prices for small specimens begin at $69.00 and vary according to size and area of collection.

Dot Dash Butterflyfish (Chaetodon punctatofasciatus)

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
Water Conditions: 75°F to 82°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 4.75″
Color Form: Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef compatable
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris)

The Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Longnose Butterflyfish, is found throughout tropical Indo Pacific waters.

Its range extends from East Africa to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Pitcairn islands, north to the Bonin Islands, south to New Caledonia and the Austral Islands; throughout Micronesia.

Big Longnose Butterflyfish are an uncommon benthopelagic species that are normally encountered in pairs along the deeper seaward reefs of their range at depths from 190 feet to over 650 feet where they feed on small whole crustaceans, the tube feet of echinoderms and sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles.

Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris)

Big Longnose Butterflyfish have a laterally compressed, bright yellow body that extends from the back of the head to the caudal peduncle, and a very long thin, silvery snout. There is a black triangular area on the top half of the head that extends all the way through the eye; and the bottom half on the breast is a dusky silvery white color with rows of small black spots. The dorsal and anal fins are predominantly yellow with transparent edges and the pectoral and caudal fins are transparent. They have a black eye spot on the anal fin located just below the caudal peduncle.

The Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris) is easily misidentified as the Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus).   Except for the longer nose, the black cluster of dots on the chest, and the black head color extending to cover the entire eye of Forcipiger longirostris, they are practically identical.

There is a rare all black form of Forcipiger longirostris, and another uncommon form where the yellow portion is

Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris)

dark brown in color.

In the East Indian region of its range, Forcipiger longirostris is replaced by a newly discovered species Forcipiger wanai; which was discovered at Cenderawasih Bay in West Papua.

Forcipiger wanai has the same general shape and coloration as Forcipiger flavissimus and Forcipiger longirostris. However, whereas the first two members of the Forcipiger genus are solid yellow with differences in snout length; Forcipiger wanai is a dusky brownish yellow color that fades to yellow or orange near the fins, with a bright yellow band behind the black head marking.

Big Longnose Butterflyfish are active swimmers that make a wonderful addition to a well established reef or FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a sand or fine gravel substrate, plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide and graze among, and lots of free swimming space.

Although the Big Longnose Butterflyfish is a peaceful species that gets along well with other peaceful species, they are very territorial with conspecifics, other butterflyfish species, and similar looking fishes and are best housed singly or as a true mated pair.

Forcipiger longirostris requires excellent water quality and areas in the tank with brisk water movement which makes a good filtration system, protein skimmer, and wave maker mandatory for their well being.

This species benefits tremendously from an ongoing supply of tiny amphipods and copepods which can be easily cultured in a fishless refugium attached to the system.

Forcipiger longirostris has not been bred in a home aquarium environment.

Like the Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis),  Big Longnose Butterflyfish form distinct pairs that mate for life.   During breeding the female deposits small, buoyant eggs into the water column where the male immediately fertilizes them. The buoyant eggs become part of the plankton chain and hatch out into small tholichthys larvae that have large bony plates extending from the head for protection. As the larvae mature and lose their bony plates, the young pass through a lengthy planktonic stage before becoming fully developed juveniles.

Big Longnose Butterflyfish are diurnal omnivores that in their natural habitat feed on Zooplankton, small crustaceans, the tube feet of echinoderms and sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles.

They have tiny mouths that can present challenges when feeding them in an aquarium environment.   A wide variety of fresh or frozen very finely chopped clams, crab, mussels, shrimp, squid, Mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, etc. fed in small amounts several times per day will keep them healthy.

Many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts set up fishless refugium to culture a continuous supply of small, live amphipods and copepods to keep them in prime condition.

Because of the depths that they are collected from,  Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris) are an uncommon species that are rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.   They are occasionally available online from waiting lists from select suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR or Reef
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 72° – 78° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 8.7″
Color Form: White, Black, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Excellent Reef species
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Zoster Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster)

Zoster Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Brown and White Butterflyfish, Black Pyramid Butterflyfish, or Brushtooth Butterflyfish are widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean.

Their range extends from the east coast of Africa and Oman to the Andaman Sea and western Sumatra and south western Java, Indonesia and from India to Mauritius.

Zoster Butterflyfish are most often encountered swimming in large schools feeding on zooplankton and algae along the outer reef slopes of their range at depths from 9 to 140 feet.

Zoster Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster)

Zoster Butterflyfish have a laterally compressed, round body with a short snout. A broad, white trapezoid shaped band covers the middle of the black body. The black dorsal fin is intersected by yellow on the tips of the white band. The pectoral, pelvic, and caudal fins are white.

The intensity of the brown to black areas on this fish can vary depending on the time of day, their mood, etc.

The Zoster Butterflyfish a gregarious species that is best housed in small schools in either a FOWLR or established reef tank of at least 150 gallon capacity with a sand or coralline gravel substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for the fish to graze on and hide among, and lots of free swimming space.

Black Pyramid Butterflyfish require thoroughly filtered, well-oxygenated water, with areas of brisk water movement. An excellent filtration system, protein skimmer, and wave maker or power head is highly recommended.

When adding a group, it is best to select medium size Hemitaurichthys zoster between 3″ to 4.5″ in length and add them into the tank at the same time. Other peaceful tankmates can be added after the Zoster Butterflyfish have established their territories.

Although well fed Zoster Butterflyfish are considered reef safe, they have been known to pick on inverts, xenia, and other soft corals. They are best kept in reef environments with some of the more noxious soft corals.

They do well in a FOWLR aquarium with other shy, peaceful species but use caution when housing them with other butterflyfish species.

Zoster Butterflyfish have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat, they form distinct pairs and after a short mating ritual, scatter their eggs in open water.   The larvae float as plankton and remain pelagic until they develop into juveniles.

In the wild, Brown and White Butterflyfish are zooplanktivores. In an aquarium environment, they will eat a variety of live of frozen foods like plankton, baby brine shrimp, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, Angel & Butterfly Mix, and finely chopped krill. Supplements of freeze dried foods containing algae and dried algae should also be provided. Feeding small amounts several times daily is recommended.

Many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts like to install refugiums under the aquarium to culture copepod colonies for a constant supply of live foods.

Zoster Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster)are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″; XLarge: 4-1/2″ or larger

Currently prices for small specimens start at around $99.99 for small Sri Lanka specimens, to $168.99 for large specimens.

Zoster Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster)

Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR or Reef
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 7 ″
Color Form: Black, Brown, White, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indian Ocean
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: up to 10 Years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus)

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Longnose Butterflyfish or Forceps Butterflyfish is

common throughout tropical Indo Pacific waters.   Its range in the Indo Pacific extends from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian and Easter Islands, north to southern Japan, south to Lord Howe Island and throughout Micronesia. In the Eastern Pacific, its range extends from southern Baja California, Mexico to the Galapagos and Revillagigedo Islands.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are a monogamous, benthopelagic species that can be encountered alone, in pairs, or in small groups of up to 5 individuals in the lagoons and exposed seaward reefs of their range at depths from 3 to over 475 feet, where they feed on a variety of hydroids, fish eggs, small crustaceans especially the tube feet of echinoderms, pedicilaria of sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles.

Adult Forcipiger flavissimus are frequently found paired together occupying their territory of the reef that they staked out for themselves.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus)

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish have a laterally compressed, bright yellow body that extends from the back of the head to the caudal peduncle, and a thin, elongated snout. The top half of the head extending to about half way through the eye is black; the bottom half is a silvery white color. The dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins are predominantly yellow with transparent edges and the caudal fin is transparent. They have a black eye spot located just below the caudal peduncle, on the anal fin.

The Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus) is easily misidentified as the Big Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris).

Except for the longer nose, the black cluster of dots on the chest, and the black head color extending to cover the entire eye of Forcipiger longirostris, they are almost identical.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are active swimmers and best housed in a well established reef or FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a sand or fine gravel substrate, plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide and graze among, and lots of free swimming space.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that get along well with other peaceful species.  They are very territorial with conspecifics and similar looking species but are usually peaceful with adequate tank space.

Although Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are considered reef safe, they may nip at coral polyps and sessile invertebrates. We recommend not keeping them with sessile invertebrates.

Forcipiger flavissimus have not been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.   They form monogamous pairs that spawn in relation to the lunar cycles. Their small, spherical, buoyant eggs hatch out in 28 to 30 hours.   Like the Margined Butterflyfish, a bony plate forms over the head area of the larvae to protect the from predation. The larvae remain pelagic for quite a long while before they develop into juvenile fry which is why there are no reported cases of breeding by tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

In their natural habitat, Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish feed on a variety of benthic organisms including small crustaceans, hydroids, fish eggs, the tube feet of echinoderms, the pedicilaria of sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles. In an aquarium environment, they are not finicky eaters and will accept a wide variety of meaty foods like frozen Mysis shrimp, chopped shrimp, chopped clam, crustacean meat, and frozen preparations.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus) are readily available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: Small: 2″ to 3-1/4″; Medium:3-1/4″ to 4-1/2″; Large: 4-1/2″ to 5-1/2″; XLarge: 5-1/2″ to 6-1/2″

Currently prices for small specimens start at around $79.99 for small Sri Lanka specimens, to $109.99 for medium specimens.

Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR or Reef
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 8.7 ″
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow, Silver
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indo and Eastern Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 to 10 Years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Multicolor Angelfish (Centropyge multicolor)

The Multicolor Angelfish (Centropyge multicolor) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Multicolor Pygmy Angelfish, Pastel Pygmy Angelfish, Pearlback Angelfish, or Many Colored Angelfish is native to many of the island groups in the Western and Central Pacific Oceans.

Their range extends from Palau; the Caroline Islands in both the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau, Guam, Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Gilbert Islands in Kiribati, Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and the Society Islands in French Polynesia.

Multicolor Angelfish are a shy, benthopelagic species that are normally encountered in small groups of 3 to 7 individuals along the outer reef slopes of their range among dense coral growths and patches of rubble at depths between 60 to 300 feet where they graze on filamentous algae and small benthic animals.   They favor coral rich reefs where they can shelter among the intricate coral formations.

Multicolor Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites that can change from a female to a male when no male is present in a small group or harem.

Multicolor Angelfish (Centropyge multicolor)

Adult Multicolor Angelfish have an orange to pale peach colored lower body with an electric blue area on top of the head behind the eyes, dotted with black spots.   The dorsal and anal fins are an electric blue color, with a bright yellow caudal fin. The upper half of the body to the caudal fin is colored silvery white.   There are no obvious ways to sex adults.

Juvenile Multicolor Angelfish have orange and blue stripes that span their bodies. As they mature, the stripes mutate into a beautiful tapestry of yellow, orange, and blue.

Multicolor Angelfish are best housed in a mature reef or FOWLR aquarium of at least 75 gallon capacity with a fine crushed gravel or sand substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among and a lot of free swimming space.

Centropyge multicolor have a preference for sheltering among coral colonies and seem to coexist with other reef dwellers however, because they occasionally nip at soft and stony polyp corals, sessile invertebrates, and clam mantles, they are considered reef safe with caution.

Like other deeper water angelfish species, they require excellent water quality with stable water conditions and a moderate amount of water movement. A quality protein skimmer and wave maker is recommended to replicate these conditions.

Multicolor Angelfish can be somewhat aggressive towards other angelfish but do well with other peaceful species like Yellow Tangs (Zebrasoma flavescens), Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.), Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.), and other dwarf angelfish species like the Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loriculus).

Although Multicolor Angelfish have been bred in an aquarium environment, raising the larvae to juveniles is challenging.

In the wild, a single male will oversee a harem of several females. Spawning usually occurs at dusk and the eggs are left to float in the water column.

In the wild, Multicolor Angelfish feed on algae, detritus and small benthic animals. In a reef tank or an aquarium with plenty of aged live rock, they will accept a wide range of angelfish preparations. Their diet should include a balance of spirulina, marine algae, seaweed, high quality omnivore pellets, frozen angelfish preparations, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and small crustaceans to mimic their natural diet and stimulate their foraging instincts. Small portions offered 3 or 4 times a day are recommended.

Multicolor Angelfish (Centropyge multicolor) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts through aquaculture, however, the majority of specimens are collected from the wild.   A variety of online sources and specialty retail shops carry them on special order at prices ranging from $110.99 to $275.99 depending on size and area of collection.

Multicolor Angelfish (Centropyge multicolor)

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOWLR or Reef with caution
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 75°F to 82°F, 8 to 12 dGH , pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3.5″
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Silver, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef Safe with caution
Origin: Western and Central Pacific
Family: Pomacanthidae
Lifespan: 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium)

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Saddled Butterflyfish or Saddle Butterflyfish is found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans from Sri Lanka and the Cocos-Keeling Islands to the Hawaiian, Marquesan and Tuamotu islands, north to southern Japan, south to Rowley Shoals and New South Wales in Australia.

Adult Saddleback Butterflyfish are usually encountered singly, in pairs, and in small groups in the coral rich lagoons and seaward reefs of their range at depths to over 130 feet where they feed on coral polyps, filamentous algae, small invertebrates, and fish eggs.

Juvenile Saddled Butterflyfish are more solitary and are usually encountered singly in shallower inshore waters.

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium) along with the Lined Butterflyfish (Chaetodon lineolatus) are giants among their genus growing to almost 12 inches in length. Both benthopelagic species that look more like angelfish than their butterflyfish cousins.

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium)

Saddleback Butterflyfish have a light yellowish gray body color with a large black saddle like blotch edged with a broad white band below, on the back . They have several wavy horizontal light blue gray lines that start at the lateral area and progress below the body. The mouth, lower cheek, throat, and lower outline of the ventral fin is a bright yellow, and the translucent caudal fin is edged in yellow. Adults have a trailing filament that extends from the rear of the dorsal fin.

Saddleback Butterflyfish do best in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 150 gallon capacity with a crushed coralline or sand substrate, good amounts of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide among and plenty of free swimming space.   This species is NOT reef safe and will eat most species of stony corals, a few soft corals, and any invertebrates that inhabit the live rock in the tank.

Because Chaetodon ephippium are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality; excellent water quality is a must. An efficient filtration system, protein skimmer, and wave maker is recommended to keep them healthy.

Saddleback Butterflyfish should not be housed with other butterflyfish species unless they are introduced as a mated pair. They get along with other peaceful fish of similar size and temperament in the same tank, but will usually become aggressive towards other Butterflies with a similar pattern or color, especially when housed in smaller aquariums.

Saddled Butterflyfish have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

Saddled Butterflyfish form pairs during breeding and are believed to be monogamous. Pairs will normally spawn in the water column during the day. The eggs hatch out into active larvae at night. Both social and obligate mating has been observed in their natural environment in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.

In their natural habitat, Saddleback Butterflyfish feed on a variety of soft and stony corals, filamentous algae, fish eggs, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium environment, they should be provided a varied, balanced diet of fresh and frozen meaty foods like Mysis Shrimp, Cyclop-eeze, Zooplankton, chopped krill, clams, mussels, Angelfish preparations, flake foods containing Spirulina or Nori, and high quality marine omnivore pellets. Feeding small portions several times a day is recommended.

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes for Chaetodon ephippium: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3 1/2″; Large: 3 1/2″ to 4 1/2″; XLarge 4 1/2″ to 6″

Currently retail prices for Indonesian specimens start at around $99.99 for medium size specimens.

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium)

Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 72°F to 79°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 11.8″
Color Form: Black, Blue, Orange, White
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef compatable
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis)

The Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Western Beaked Butterflyfish, Willemawillum, Three-Stripe Butterflyfish, Marginalis Butterflyfish, and Margined Coralfish is endemic to Australia and ranges from the Houtman Abrolhos in Western Australia, around the coasts of northern Australia to the northern Great Barrier Reef, and the reefs in the Coral Sea off Queensland, Papua New Guinea, and Vietnam.

The Margined Butterfly is a solitary species that is usually encountered alone, or in pairs along the outer slopes, drop offs, and islands of their range on coral and rock reefs where they prey on crabs, shrimp, polychaetes, and other benthic invertebrates.

Margined Coralfish are found in shallower waters around the islands, as well as on the deeper drop offs along the outer slopes at depths to over 100 feet.

Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis)

The Margined Butterfly has a silvery white body with two slender, vertical orange bars edged in black at the front part of the body, and a wide yellowish or yellowish orange band edged in black at the caudal peduncle. The first bar at the head intersects the eye, and the second wider bar is an extension from the edging on top of the dorsal fin, down in front of the pectoral fins and into the pelvic fins which have a splash of yellow.

Chelmon marginalis closely resemble Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) without the mid body stripe, and the Muelleri Butterflyfish (Chelmon muelleri).

Juvenile Chelmon marginalis have an ocellus on their dorsal fin and a posterior bar that

Juvenile Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis)

disappears as the fish mature into adults.   Adults lack the false eyespot.

The Margined Butterfly can be housed singly, in pairs, or in small groups if all specimens are introduced at the same time, in a mature FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a coralline gravel or sand substrate, large amounts of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to hide and graze among, and plenty of free swimming space.

Because Margined Butterfly pick on Tridacna clam mantles, corals, tubeworms, and eat Aiptasia, a variety of benthic invertebrates, crustaceans, the heads of feather dusters, some soft corals, and will decimate polychaete worm populations; they are not considered reef safe.

Like Chelmon rostratus, Chelmon marginalis are sensitive to changes in water quality and require an efficient filtration system, protein skimmer, and wave maker to simulate their turbid environment.   They prefer temperatures in the 73-81° F range.

Margined Butterfly are generally peaceful however when housed singly or as a pair, they will battle over their territory with others of the same genus.

They can be housed with other peaceful species including Chromis, Cardinals (Pajama Cardinal), Clownfish, Damselfish, Firefish, Dottybacks, Gobies, and Dwarf Angelfish like the Bicolor Angel.

Margined Coralfish have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

In the wild, they form up into pairs during breeding.  Eggs are deposited into the water column by the female with the male immediately fertilizing them. The small, buoyant eggs hatch out into larvae called thoilchyths that have a bony plate over the head to protect them from predators. They remain pelagic until fully developed into juveniles.

In their natural habitat, Margined Butterfly are primarily carnivores that prey on benthic invertebrates such as crabs, shrimps, tubeworms, soft corals and polychaetes.

In an aquarium environment, they require a varied diet of live and frozen meaty foods including live fortified Brine and Mysis shrimp, live black worms (Lumbriculus variegatus), sessile invertebrates, live clam, black mussels, Angelfish preparations, sponge based marine preparations, flake foods containing Spirulina or Nori, and high quality marine omnivore pellets.

Margined Butterfly (Chelmon marginalis) are rarely seen in the aquarium trade.  They are occasionally available online from waiting lists to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Currently waiting list prices start at around $719.00 for 4.75″ specimens, to over $899.99 for larger Australian specimens.

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 78° to 83 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 7″
Color Form: White, Black, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Australia, Great Barrier Reef Queensland
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis)

Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Seychelles Butterflyfish, Madagascar Pearlscale Butterfly Fish, or Indian Ocean Chevron Butterflyfish is found in the Indian Ocean from eastern Africa, to as far south as Port Elizabeth in South Africa; east to the Australian territories of Christmas Island and Cocos Keeling Islands, and north to Sri Lanka.

Madagascar Butterflyfish are a shy species that are mostly found alone and in pairs over the coral rich seaward reefs of their range at depths from 30, to over 390 feet.

Off the coast of mainland Tanzania, lone Seychelles Butterflyfish are frequently observed by divers swimming over the tops corals in areas with lush growths, at depths from 60 to 120 feet  feeding on stony and soft coral polyps, phytoplankton, filamentous algae, polychaeta worms, other cnidarians, and a variety of benthic invertebrates.

Madagascar Butterflyfish are a shy species that are difficult to approach at any depth.   When they encounter a diver, they will usually swim off into thick growths of branched corals for shelter and protection.

Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis)

Adult Madagascar Butterflyfish have a silvery white head and pale grey white body color, with 5 to 7 dark grey chevron lines along the sides that are partly broken into spots, a broad copper orange to reddish orange band across the rear of the body, a black vertical bar, outlined with white through the eye, and a white edged black spot on the forehead.    There is a pronounced thin black line on the rear portion of the dorsal and anal fins bordered by a thicker white line, and the tail is copper red to orange with a white band behind the caudal peduncle and the outer edge of the tail.

The poster section of the body, and the rear dorsal and anal fins of juvenile Seychelles Butterflyfish is colored yellow, instead of the reddish orange color that distinguishes adults.

Although Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis), Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii), and Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) are often misidentified; both Chaetodon madagaskariensis and Chaetodon mertensii, which many believe to be the same species, have larger orange to reddish orange areas at their posteriors than Chaetodon xanthurus, which is narrower and more crescent shaped.

Madagascar Butterflyfish are not reef safe and should be kept in a mature FOWLR tank of at least 100 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sand substrate, large amounts of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.    They thrive in mature aquariums where the fish can forage on micro and macroalgae growths on the live rock.

This species requires scrupulous attention to water quality and requires a good filtration system, efficient protein skimming, a wave maker or power head for water movement, and regular water changes to maintain their well being.

Because Madagascar Butterflyfish inhabit the mature reef ecosystems of stony reef building corals that they feed on, they are NOT REEF SAFE in any aquarium with live corals.

Seychelles Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that can be territorial toward conspecifics and Butterfly Fishes of similar appearance.   They can be housed with butterfly fishes of dissimilar appearance in large tanks, especially when introduced at the same time.

Madagascar Butterflyfish do best with other peaceful species from other Families of the same or smaller size.

Madagascar Butterflyfish have not been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat, Chaetodon madagaskariensis are open water spawners that do not form monogamous pairs.   They apparently only form into pairs when actual breeding is taking place.   Spawning is initiated when the female ripens with eggs.   The female scatters her eggs into the water column where the male fertilizes them.   The small, spherical eggs that have a drop of oil in them which makes them buoyant, hatch in 28 to 30 hours.   The larvae, called thoilchyths, have a bony plate over the head and are pelagic for quite a while before developing into juveniles. Replicating this phase of their development is why breeding Madagascar Butterflyfish in an aquarium environment is extremely difficult.

In the wild, Madagascar Butterflyfish feed on coral polyps, phytoplankton, polychaete worms, various invertebrates, and filamentous algae.

In an aquarium environment, they can be picky eaters that should initially be fed a meaty diet of live fortified brine shrimp or live black worms (Lumbriculus variegatus) until they begin to eat regularly.

Once they are eating regularly, they can be fed a varied diet of fresh or frozen meaty foods such as Mysis Shrimp, Cyclop-eeze, Zooplankton, chopped krill, clams, mussels, Angelfish preparations, sponge based marine preparations, flake foods containing Spirulina or Nori, and high quality marine omnivore pellets. Offer small portions several times daily.

Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size, area of collection, and correct identification of the species.

Approximate purchase sizes for Chaetodon madagaskariensis: Small: < 2.25″ to Large: 3.5″ – 4.75″

Currently waiting list prices for Seychelles specimens start at around $90.99 for small specimens, to $168.99 or more for large specimens.

Madagascar Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis)

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 77°F – 81°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.026
Max size: 6″
Color Form: White, Black, Red, Orange
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not Reef Safe
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: Over 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Beaked Butterflyfish, Beaked Coralfish, or Orange Stripe Butterfly are found in the Western Pacific from Andaman Sea to the Ryukyu Islands, and Australia.

Copperband Butterflyfish are usually encountered as single fish or in pairs in estuaries, silty inner reefs, and rocky shorelines of the coral reefs of their range, at depths to 85 feet where they are often seen feeding on plankton, worms, sea anemones, shrimp, clams, and sponges.

Although Copperband Butterflyfish are solitary, shy, and peaceful; they will aggressively defend their territories against any perceived threat.  Unmated Copperband Butterflyfish have no problem living solitary lives on the reef.

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

Copperband Butterflyfish have a pearlescent silvery white body color with black edged, orange gold vertical bands, a false black eyespot on the upper rear of the dorsal fin, a white edged black vertical band on the caudal peduncle, and a long, narrow, nose and mouth. The light yellow orange and white pectoral fins have a tinge of yellow, with a translucent caudal fin. Males and females cannot be visually distinguished by size or color.

Copperband Butterflyfish are best housed in a mature reef or FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a deep Oolitic Aragonite or coralline sand substrate, plenty of aged live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.

Chelmon rostratus are unbelievably sensitive to changes in water quality. Fluctuations in specific gravity, pH, water hardness, and temperature will very quickly adversely affect the health of the fish.   An efficient filtration system, protein skimmer, and power head or wave maker to provide a moderate, steady current and oxygenate the water is required to keep the fish healthy.   Changing about 10% of the tank volume water every two weeks is also recommended for this species.

Although Copperband Butterflyfish are considered reef safe and will generally not eat corals; some tropical fish keeping enthusiasts have reported them nipping at small polyp stony corals (SPS) and occasionally picking on coral polyps. They will search for food in between the coral polyps with their long snouts which could potentially damage delicate corals.

Chelmon rostratus are fond of picking on invertebrates, especially anemones and feather dusters.   They relish eating Aiptasia, or glass anemones, and are often specifically introduced into reef tanks to control them.  Any decorative shrimps, clams, mollusks, or small invertebrates you may have in your reef tank could also be targeted.

Copperband Butterflyfish thrive in very large reef tanks and in peaceful FOWLR community tanks provided they are not kept with conspecifics or similar butterflyfish.   They do not mix well with others of the same species.

Friendly, small to medium sized species that do not compete with Copperband Butterflyfish for food make good tankmates.

The following species make excellent tankmates for your Copperband Butterflyfish:

Blue Green and like type Chromis
Cardinals (Pajama Cardinal)
Clownfish
Damselfish
Dartfish (Fire Dartfish)
Dottybacks
Dragonets (Mandarin Goby)
Dwarf Angelfish like (Bicolor Angel)
Gobies

Including larger, more predatory species with Copperband Butterflyfish should be avoided, or closely monitored.   When they become stressed, cold, or sick they become either aggressive or listless and may stop eating.

Copperband Butterflyfish are extremely difficult to breed in an aquarium environment for a number of reasons.

Because males and females are virtually impossible to sex; establishing a mated pair is rarely accomplished.   Copperband Butterflyfish can fight to the death when housed with conspecifics and when attempting to select a pair; the fish can hurt or kill each other if they are not constantly monitored.   Should you luck out and establish a breeding pair, it is extremely rare for them to successfully lay and hatch out their eggs.   Additionally, feeding the young fry and juveniles is extremely difficult.  Most, if not all fry will starve to death.

In their natural environment on the reefs, Copperband Butterflyfish are monogamous and form up into pairs during breeding.   After a sort mating ritual, the female will deposit her eggs on a rocky surface and the male will shimmy over them to fertilize them.   Both parents aggressively defend their brood from predators.   The tiny hatched out fry have a unique plating that protect them from predators.

In their natural habitat, Copperband Butterflyfish eat plankton, worms, sea anemones, shrimp, and sponges.

When initially introduced into an aquarium environment, they often will either not eat or be picky eaters that must be enticed to eat.

Live brine shrimp, blackworms, frozen Mysis shrimp or worms tucked into a piece of live rock, or a crushed live clam in its shell will often get the fish eating.   Invasive populations of Aiptasia in your tank can often get the fish feeding.

Once the fish is eating, they should be fed a high protein flake food or pellet supplement along with live or frozen meaty foods like Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, clams, bloodworms, and chopped seafoods. Small portions should be fed several times a day, but refrain from overfeeding as it can stress out their digestive system. Experiment with different types of food until you find what the fish will readily accept.

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) are readily available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1″ to 2-1/2″; Medium: 2-1/2″ to 4-1/4″; Large: 4-1/4″ to 5″; Extra Large: 5″ to 6-1/2″

Currently prices for small specimens start at around $69.99 for small Indonesian specimens, up to $499.99 for large specimens.

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR or Reef
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 75°F to 79°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 8″
Color Form: White, Black, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii)

Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Chaetodon mertensii, the Atoll Butterflyfish, Yellowback Butterflyfish, Orangetail Butterflyfish, Crowned Pearlyscale Butterflyfish, Merten’s coralfish. and Merten’s Butterflyfish is found in the western Pacific Ocean, East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, The Red Sea, and Indonesia.

The Mertensii Butterflyfish was first discovered in the Kermadec Islands Marine Reserve north of New Zealand in 2015 and has a range that extends from the Ryukyu Islands to the Philippines, all the way to Lord Howe Island, Rapa Iti, and the Tuamotus.

Mertensii Butterflyfish are encountered alone, in pairs, and loose groups in the deep lagoons and seaward reefs of their range in depths from 30 to over 390 feet where they feed on algae, corals, tubeworms, and small benthic invertebrates.

Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii)

Mertensii Butterflyfish have a silvery white body color, with 5 to 7 dark gray chevron shaped bands on along the sides. A black vertical bar, outlined in white, runs interrupted through the eye and over the nape at the head.   A broad yellow to orange band extends from the top of the dorsal fin to the anal fin at the posterior of the body.   The tail is yellow or orange with the caudal peduncle and outer edge of the tail colored white.

Except for the yellower hind parts and the continuous head band; Chaetodon mertensii look almost identical to the Seychelles Butterflyfish (Chaetodon madagaskariensis).

Similar species include the Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) and closely related Eritrean (Chaetodon paucifasciatus).

Although  Mertensii Butterflyfish can be housed in a mature reef tank with caution; they are better housed in a well established FOWLR aquarium of at least 100 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sand substrate, large amounts of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.   They thrive in mature aquariums where the fish can forage on mature live rock growths.

This species requires a good filtration system, efficient protein skimming, a wave maker for water movement, and possibly a chiller to help maintain their cooler water requirements.

Like Chaetodon xanthurus, Mertensii Butterflyfish feed on several species of hard and soft corals, tubeworms, bristle worms, small invertebrates and are not considered reef safe.

Many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts with very large reef tanks have been successfully keeping them with some of the more noxious, unpalatable soft corals,  despite them occasionally nipping or nibbling on the polyps of SPS corals like Zoanthus, some LPS coral species, Tridacna clams, Aiptasia anemones, tubeworms, bristleworms, and smaller benthic invertebrates.

Mertensii Butterflyfish tankmates should be of the same size and peaceful in nature to minimize aggressive behavior.

Mertensii Butterflyfish may become territorial towards similar patterned or butterfly species of the same color, particularly when kept in smaller tanks.   When simultaneously introduced into large mature aquariums as juveniles,  they will normally coexist peacefully with other inhabitants however, its usually not a good idea to mix butterflyfish species of the same genus.

Mertensii Butterflyfish will often refuse to eat or venture out of the protection of their live rock crannies when kept with more belligerent species in FOWLR tanks.   In peaceful surroundings, they acclimate well and will almost always immediately begin to eat.

Compatible species include Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica), Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), Clownfish (Amphiprioninae), and Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis).

In the wild, Mertensii Butterflyfish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water.   They have not been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat, Mertensii Butterflyfish feed on algae, soft corals, SPS and LPS corals polyps, gorgonians, tubeworms, and small benthic invertebrates.

In an aquarium environment, the Mertensii Butterflyfish diet should consist of a variety of live, frozen, or freeze dried foods that include prepared foods rich in algae, high quality marine flakes, omnivore pellets, spirulina, Zooplankton, chopped krill, clams, mussels, Mysis shrimp, and vitamin enriched brine shrimp.   Feed small portions several times daily.

Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii) are available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size, area of collection, and correct identification of the species.

The three most often misidentified species are listed below:  

Chaetodon mertensii and Chaetodon madagaskariensis, believed by many to be the same species; both have a larger orange area than Chaetodon xanturus.

Eritrean butterflyfish (Chaetodon paucifascatious) which are identified by the reddish area, which in the other two is orange.

The yellow to orange area of Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) that is smaller than, and more moon shaped than the orange area of Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii).

Approximate purchase size for Mertensii Butterflyfish:  Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″

Currently prices for small Fiji specimens start at around $69.99 for small specimens, to $110.00 or more for large specimens.

Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii)

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 74-80° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 5.2″
Color Form: White, Black, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: Over 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Yellow Tailed Butterflyfish, Crosshatch Butterflyfish or Philippines Chevron Butterflyfish is central Indo-Pacific region from Indonesia and the Philippines north to the Ryukyu Islands.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish can be encountered alone, in pairs, and in small groups along drop offs in the clear, coastal outer reef slopes of their range, usually around areas colonized with rich growths of Acropora staghorn corals, at depths from 20 to over 160 feet where they feed on various algae, soft coral polyps, and small benthic invertebrates.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish has iridescent pearly white body scales edged with black, in a striking contrasting reticulated (net like) or crosshatched pattern. They have a white rimmed, black oval splotch on the forehead behind the eye, a black vertical line through the eye, a bright orange sickle shaped band over the anterior dorsal and anal fins that are highlighted with delicate white, black, and yellow edging, a translucent orange and white caudal fin, and bright yellow on the tips of the dorsal fin. There are no discernible differences between males and females.

They are often mistaken for Mertensii Butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii).

Although Pearlscale Butterflyfish can be housed in a mature reef tank with caution; they are best housed in a well established FOWLR aquarium of at least 100 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sand substrate, mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space. In mature aquariums containing plenty of live rock for the fish to browse on and forage among, they will normally thrive.

Like Chaetodon semilarvatus, Chaetodon xanthurus feed on several species of soft corals and small invertebrates, they are not considered reef safe, however, many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts with very large reef systems have successfully reported housing

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

Chaetodon xanthurus with some of the more noxious, unpalatable soft corals. They may, or may not, exhibit curiosity and nip at coral polyps, particularly SPS corals.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish often become territorial towards similar looking, colored, or patterned butterfly species, especially when housed in smaller tanks, however; they can coexist when simultaneously introduced as juveniles into a large mature aquarium.

As a general rule it is never a good idea to mix butterflyfish species together, especially close relatives. A few compatible species include Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica), Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), Clownfish (Amphiprioninae), and Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis).

Pearlscale Butterflyfish tankmates in FOWLR systems should be the same size and peaceful in nature.   They will often refuse to eat or venture out of the protection of their live rock crannies when kept with more belligerent species. They will almost always acclimate well and thrive when kept in peaceful surroundings.

Like all butterflyfish, Chaetodon xanthurus require water quality that is thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, along with moderate water flow.  An excellent filtration system, protein skimmer, and wave maker should be mandatory.

In the wild, Pearlscale Butterflyfish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water. They have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat, Pearlscale Butterflyfish feed on algae, soft coral polyps, gorgonians, and small benthic invertebrates. In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a variety of live, frozen, or freeze dried foods that includes high quality marine flakes, omnivore pellets, spirulina, prepared foods containing algae, chopped krill, clams, or mussels, mysis shrimp, and vitamin enriched brine shrimp.
Feed small portions several times daily.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) are readily available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1″ to 2-1/4″, Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″, Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-3/4″.

Currently prices for small specimens start at around $52.99 for small Fiji specimens, up to $104.99 for large specimens.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 74-80° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 5.9″
Color Form: White, Black, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: Over 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus)

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus) is known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts by a variety of names including; Bluecheek Butterflyfish, Addis Butterflyfish, Masked Butterflyfish, Blue Cheeked Butterflyfish, Bluemask Butterflyfish, Coralfish, Golden Butterflyfish, Golden Masked Butterflyfish, Red-lined Butterflyfish, Red Sea Butterflyfish, Red Sea Golden Butterflyfish, Semilarvatus Butterfly, and Yellow Butterflyfish.

Found in the Northwestern Indian Ocean, their range extends into the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, as far east as the coast of Oman.

In their range, Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish are a common species that are encountered in pairs and small shoals among reefs rich in coral growth, at depths from the surface to over 65 feet where they can be seen feeding on benthic invertebrates and hard corals. They are occasionally seen hovering in a stationary position for long periods beneath ledges of plate corals of the genus Acroporak.

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus)

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish have a bright yellow body striped with delicate thin red vertical lines and a bluish gray mask covering the eyes.   The dorsal, anal, pelvic and caudal fins are yellow.

Bluecheek Butterflyfish are best housed in a well established FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sand substrate, mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space. Because they eat soft corals and small polyp stony corals as well as ornamental shrimp, tube worms and anemones, they are not considered reef safe.

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish are a peaceful species that can be housed alone, in pairs, or in groups with other peaceful fish of similar size and temperament in the same aquarium, however, they may become aggressive towards other Butterflies with a similar pattern or coloration when housed in smaller tanks.

Although the Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish is one of the few species to have long term mates, Chaetodon semilarvatus have not been reportedly bred in an aquarium environment. In the wild, pairs will normally spawn in the water column during the day. At night the eggs emerge into active larvae.

In their natural habitat Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish feed primarily on hard corals and benthic invertebrates. In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a variety of meaty foods like vitamin enriched brine shrimp, seaweed, nori, spirulina, marine algae, and prepared algae based foods.

Feeding small portions of high quality marine flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and live offerings of brine shrimp or mysis shrimp 2 to 3 or more times a day is recommended.

Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes are for Small: 1″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″; Large: 3-1/2″ to 5″

Prices start at around $ 349.99 for small Red Sea specimens.

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: Temp 72-78° F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.022-1.025
Max size: 9″
Color Form: Black, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: Northwestern Indian Ocean
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Wrought Iron Butterfly (Chaetodon daedalma)

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish (Chaetodon daedalmahe) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Black Silk Butterflyfish are found in the Northwest Pacific Ocean around central and southern Japan, primarily around the main islands of Japan south of Sagami Bay; notably Ryukyu, Bonin, and the Ogasawara and Izu Islands, where they are endemic.

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish are a sociable, nomadic species commonly found offshore around the islands of their range, alone, in pairs, and more often in small pods in the clear waters of the rocky, outer coral reefs of their range.

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish occasionally form up into very large schools called “wrought iron balls” as they graze on algae, zooplankton, fanworms, hydroids, gastropods, barnacles, tunicates and other benthic invertebrates over wide areas of the ocean floor, mostly at depths from 35 to over 90 ft.   Many researchers believe that the “wrought iron ball” formations are a defensive strategy.

Wrought Iron Butterfly (Chaetodon daedalma)

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish have a black body with yellowish white edged scales that give it a stunning metallic like cross hatched appearance.   The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are edged in yellow.

Juveniles have a vertical, more white colored splotch on the sides behind the gills that disappear as they grow into adults.

Black Silk Butterflyfish are best housed in a well established FOWLR aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sand substrate, mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space.

Because Wrought Iron Butterflyfish relish tubeworms and pick at Large polyp stone coral (LPS),  Small polyp stone coral (SPS), soft corals, Tridacna clams, and most crustaceans; they are not reef safe.

Wrought Iron Butterfly (Chaetodon daedalma)

Chaetodon daedalmahe can be housed alone, in pairs, or with groups of fish of similar size and temperament in the same aquarium without worry.  They are generally shy and peaceful but can become territorial if their aquarium is to small.

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish require a good filtration system, efficient protein skimming, a wave maker for water movement, and a chiller to maintain their cooler water conditions.

Chaetodon daedalmahe have not been reportedly bred in an aquarium environment. They are an oviparous species. Males and females form up into pairs for breeding.

In their natural habitat, Wrought Iron Butterflyfish graze on zooplankton, algae, fan worms, hydroids, gastropods, barnacles, tunicates and other benthic invertebrates in the water column and on the ocean floor. In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a varied diet of high quality omnivore pellets along with fresh or frozen meaty and algae based foods. Krill, mysis, artemia, Cyclops, spirulina, etc. should be fed multiple times daily.

Outside of the Japanese tropical fish keeping trade, Wrought Iron (Chaetodon daedalmahe) are rarely exported and seldom available to fish keeping enthusiasts in the United States. Their rarity, restricted distribution, and cooler water keeping requirements make them a valuable species that when exported and available for sale exceed $2500.00 USD.

Current prices for small size under 2″ specimens start at $5,999.99 USD; Medium 2″-3″ to XLarge 4″-5″ quarantined specimens sell from $7,499.99 to $9,999.99 USD.

Wrought Iron Butterfly (Chaetodon daedalma)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: Temp 68-75F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 7.8-8.5, Salinity 1.022-1.026
Max size: 6″
Color Form: Black, Blue, White
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: Ryukyu, Bonin, Izu, Japan
Family: Chaetodontidae
Lifespan: Over 10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger)

Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Hawaiian Black Trigger, Black Durgon, Black Finned Triggerfish, or in Hawaiian, Humuhumu’ele’ele are found worldwide in Tropical Atlantic/Caribbean, Tropical Eastern Pacific, and Tropical Indo Pacific waters.

Its range extends from Hawaii, up through Polynesia, westward to the East Indies and across the Indian Ocean. The black triggerfish is also located around the southern coast of Africa.

Black Triggerfish are uncommon in most areas of their range, but appear abundantly in small, loose aggregations around the exposed outer reefs of isolated oceanic islands. They are prolific inland and around the shores of the Ascension Island area.

Black Durgon are a Benthopelagic species that are also encountered alone and in small, loose aggregations in shallow lagoons, open water, and more abundantly around oceanic islands on the clear, shallower, 15 to 125 foot deep outer reef crest ledges, slopes and drop offs.

In open waters at depths to 300 feet, large congregations of Black Triggerfish are commonly encountered feeding on zooplankton, phytoplankton, and calcareous algae.

Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger)

Black Triggerfish have a mottled dark blue green, almost black, body color with horizontal markings and occasionally some greenish orange at the head; bold, bright white to bluish white lines along the base of their dorsal and anal fins, and a slightly rounded to double emarginate black caudal fin. Around the eyes and face there are thin, light blue to turquoise colored lines. There are no obvious sexual differences between males and females.

Unlike the Indian Triggerfish (Melichthys indicus), which has never been seen near Hawaii, the Black Durgon lacks the white edging on the caudal fin. Black Triggerfish are capable of changing their colors at will, depending on their mood and surroundings.

Black Triggerfish are not reef safe and will munch on corals and invertebrates in your tank, they are best housed in a mature FOWLR tank of at least 125 gallon capacity with a crushed coralline gravel or sandy substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs and plenty of free swimming space.

Like most triggerfish, Black Triggerfish are voracious eaters that require a good filtration system, efficient protein skimming, and a wave maker to replicate the brisk water movement they require.

Black Triggerfish are territorial and known to be somewhat aggressive, especially towards smaller tank mates and those with similar body shapes.

Similar sized semi aggressive species and slightly smaller more aggressive species can usually coexist with them.

In large systems, suitable tankmates include large angelfish like the Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator), some tang species like the Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus), Butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae family), and certain surgeonfish like the  . Avoid housing them with small docile species.

Melichthys niger have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

In the wild like Indian Triggerfish, they are egg scatterers that display distinct pairing during breeding.

Black Triggerfish are omnivores that feed predominately on drifting zooplankton, phytoplankton, squid, shrimp, small fish, calcareous algae, and at Fernando de Noronha Archipelago in the southeast Atlantic, the feces and vomits of Spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) that congregate in the shallow bay.

In an aquarium environment, Black Triggerfish require a varied diet of high quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and live or frozen seafood. Frozen Angelfish formulas, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, Spirulina enriched brine shrimp, Mysis, squid, chopped shrimp, mussels, small fish and some vegetable matter will keep them healthy and vibrant.   Feed small portions several times daily.

Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes vary from small specimen 1.25″ – 1.75″, up to large 7″ – 9″ adults with prices starting at $75.99 for small specimens.

Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: Temp 76-82F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.022-1.025
Max size: 12 – 18″
Color Form: Black, Blue, White
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: Tropical Pacific to Indian Ocean
Family: Balistidae
Lifespan: Over 10 – 15 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Indian Trigger (Melichthys indicus)

Indian Trigger (Melichthys indicus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Black Finned Triggerfish or Indian Black Triggerfish are found throughout the Indian Ocean.   Its range extends from the Red Sea and East Africa, eastward to western Thailand and Sumatra, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Indian triggerfish have never been found near Hawaii.

The Indian Trigger is a solitary species that is usually encountered alone in clear lagoons and along the coral rich seaward reef slopes of their range at depths to 100 feet where they have been observed feeding on algae, sponges, crustaceans, and invertebrates. Along the deep outer reef slopes, lone Indian Triggers are frequently seen as deep as 250 feet feeding on benthic invertebrates.

Juvenile Indian Triggers are often collected from corals and rocks that they shelter among. At night both adults and juveniles have been observed digging holes below the bases of corals and using their dorsal and anal fins to bury themselves with sand to hide from predators.

Indian Trigger (Melichthys indicus)

The Indian Trigger has an oval shaped dark brown, to bluish violet, to black colored body with pale blue, pink, or white stripes along the base of the dorsal and anal fins; white bands that begin at the eyes and extend over most of their face with an oblique blue stripe on the lower cheek, and a narrow white margin on the round caudal fin.

They closely resemble the Black Durgon or Hawaiian Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger) that lack the white margin on the caudal fin.

The Indian Trigger can be housed in a mature reef or FOWLR tank of at least 150 gallon capacity with a sand or coralline substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide among and a copious amount of free swimming space. The Melichthys niger can be kept with caution in reef systems without sponges, gastropods and crustaceans.   They typically do not nip at corals and will generally ignore sessile invertebrates, but adults will eat any ornamental shrimp or snails they may come across.

Indian Triggers are known to be somewhat aggressive, especially towards smaller tank mates and those with similar body shapes.   Ideally, only one Indian Trigger should be kept in a FOWLR tank, however, similar sized semi aggressive species and slightly smaller more aggressive species usually get along well with them.   Avoid housing them with small docile species.

Like most triggerfish, Indian Triggers are voracious eaters that require a good filtration system, efficient protein skimming, and a wave maker to replicate the brisk water movement they require.

The Indian Trigger has never been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural environment, Melichthys indicus display distinct pairing when spawning.   The eggs and sperm are simultaneously released into the water column and broadcast onto the substrate.   The parents are very aggressive over their eggs and apparently guard them until they hatch into larvae.

In their natural habitat, Indian Triggers feed on algae, sea weeds, hard shelled mollusks, echinoderms, small fish, zooplankton, and benthic invertebrates like sea urchins, sea worms and small crustaceans.

In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a varied diet of fresh or frozen Angelfish formulas, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, Spirulina enriched brine shrimp, Mysis, squid, chopped shrimp, mussels, small fish and some vegetable matter. Feeding small portions several times daily is recommended.

The Indian Trigger (Melichthys indicus) is occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from a variety of online suppliers and specialty fish shops at prices that vary according to size and area of collection.

Approximate purchase sizes vary from small specimen 1.0″ – 1.5″, up to large 7″ – 9″ adults with prices ranging from $79.99 to $695.99.

Indian Trigger (Melichthys indicus)

Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
Aquarium Type: FOLR
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: Temp 72-82F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1-8.5, Salinity 1.022-1.026
Max size: 9.5″
Color Form: Black, Blue, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Not reef safe
Origin: Indian Ocean, West Pacific
Family: Balistidae
Lifespan: Over 10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate