Overview
- Found in the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea to Hawaii and French Polynesia.
- Distinguished by its bright yellow body, elongated snout, and a dark mask over the eyes.
- Closely related to the Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish but has a more slender snout.
- Uses its narrow mouth to extract small invertebrates from coral crevices.
- A peaceful, reef-associated fish that often forms monogamous pairs in the wild.
Feeding
- Primarily feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and other benthic invertebrates.
- Prefers a diet rich in live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood.
- May graze on sponge matter and microalgae in a well-established reef tank.
- Requires frequent, varied feedings to maintain health and energy.
- Best kept in aquariums with an abundant source of natural microfauna.
Habitat
- Commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and outer reef slopes.
- Thrives in environments with moderate currents and plenty of rock structures.
- Prefers tanks with open swimming areas and multiple hiding spots.
- Reef-safe when housed with non-aggressive tank mates.
- Ideal tank size is at least 75 gallons for a single specimen.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration.
- More delicate than Forcipiger flavissimus, needing expert-level care.
- Adapts slowly to captivity but thrives in well-maintained reef tanks.
Compatibility
- Peaceful and best suited for non-aggressive community reef tanks.
- Compatible with other butterflyfish, tangs, wrasses, and gobies.
- Should not be housed with highly aggressive or predatory fish.
- May display territorial tendencies towards other longnose butterflyfish.
- Pairs well with fish that do not compete for similar food sources.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active swimmer that explores its surroundings in search of food.
- Often seen probing rock crevices with its elongated snout.
- Initially shy but becomes more confident once acclimated.
- Forms strong bonds with tank mates, particularly if kept in pairs.
- Displays curiosity towards its environment, making it an engaging addition to reef tanks.