Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral-rich lagoons and reef slopes.
- Identified by its pale yellow body with diagonal dark stripes and a prominent black band covering its eyes.
- A delicate species that requires a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters.
- Typically found in pairs or small groups in the wild, making it a social species.
- Best suited for an experienced aquarist due to its specialized diet and reef-dependent nature.
Feeding
- Obligate corallivore, primarily feeding on coral polyps in the wild.
- In captivity, it requires a diet rich in sponge-based foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and marine algae.
- May be difficult to acclimate to prepared foods, requiring patience and careful feeding strategies.
- Frequent small meals throughout the day help mimic its natural feeding habits.
- A well-balanced diet helps maintain its vivid coloration and supports long-term health.
Habitat
- Typically found in coral reefs with abundant Acropora corals, where it feeds and shelters.
- Prefers clear, well-oxygenated waters with moderate current flow.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock and coral structures to provide hiding spaces and grazing areas.
- Thrives in pristine water conditions, requiring an advanced filtration system.
- Avoiding aggressive tankmates ensures a stress-free environment for this species.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C) for maintaining overall health.
- Recommended pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires high-quality water conditions with frequent water changes to remove waste buildup.
- Due to its coral-feeding nature, it may not be suitable for artificial reef aquariums.
- Providing an enriched environment with corals helps encourage natural foraging behavior.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other butterflyfish.
- Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive reef fish.
- Not reef-safe, as it actively feeds on live corals, making it unsuitable for reef tanks.
- Should not be housed with highly aggressive species that could stress or harass it.
- Keeping in pairs or small groups may reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.
Aquarium Behavior
- An active swimmer that prefers open spaces with access to coral formations.
- Frequently observed picking at rock formations and searching for food.
- Can become stressed in confined spaces, requiring a well-structured tank setup.
- Providing live rock formations encourages natural grazing behavior and reduces stress.
- Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and exhibit interactive behaviors, particularly during feeding times.