CHAETODONTIDAE (BUTTERFLY FISH)

The butterflies are some of the most beautiful of
all marine fish, on account of their vivid
coloring. They are widespread in the tropical seas,
where they live in coral reefs, either singly or as
couples, generally staying close to the coast. The
juveniles often have a different coloring from
adults, which can cause some confusions between
species. Butterfly fish generally have a specialized
diet, according to the species: some graze on algae,
some eat the tentacles of anemones or coral polyps,
while others prefer different kinds of invertebrates.
This sometimes leads to acclimatization problems,
as they will not accept a normal diet. They must
therefore be trained to eat other food: adult brine
shrimps, worms, pieces of mussel, small shrimps. If
they refuse this type of food they will soon die. The
Chaetodons are considered the most demanding of
fish as regards living conditions. This means the
water must be of excellent quality - thoroughly
stirred, filtered, and oxygenated - and regular
changes, in small quantities, are beneficial. The
temperature must be a minimum of 26°C, and the
specific gravity 1.022-1.023-
Generally speaking, it is only possible to keep one
Chaetodon per tank: they are territorial and do not
really get along with each another, although they
do accept fish from other species. Nevertheless,
invertebrates are out of the question as cohabitants.
The decor should consist of blocks of coral,
through which they can weave about in comfort,
thanks to their body form, but they must be given
sufficient free space for swimming and feeding.