Reef Safe Aquarium Fish - Butterflyfish

Butterflyfish in the Reef Aquarium

General description: Butterflyfish compete with the angelfish in being considered the most beautiful of all saltwater fish. Butterflies have protruding mouths and oval shaped bodies that are extremely thin when viewed laterally. This body design allows butterflies to move sleekly through the water among rocks and corals and to collect food from small nooks and crannies.

Living conditions: Butterflyfish are often presented as difficult to maintain, but some species do fare extremely well in aquariums when they are provided perfect or near perfect conditions. Butterflyfish need space to swim freely, so tanks of at least 55 gallons are essential; note that some species require tanks of at least 125 gallons. Most species of butterflies are peaceful and need to be grouped with other peaceful fish species (if any at all). If a butterflyfish is threatened by its tank mates or overall environment, it will most likely not feed. Tank water must be pristinely maintained; inferior tank water could be interpreted as a threat.

Feeding: Some butterflies are omnivorous and eat small animals; however, most feed on algae, sponges and coral. This being the case, most species of butterfly fish are not recommended for a reef aquarium unless the hobbyist is willing to provide live corals as food. The Heniochus Black & White Butterflyfish does not primarily feed on live coral, so it would be appropriate for a reef tank. Generally, butterflies should be offered an array of food including flakes, live brine, and frozen foods. The carnivorous species should be fed marine fish, crustacean flesh, mysis shrimp and frozen preparations. Some species need to be fed several times a day, so, again, be sure to do your research.