Class: Actinopterygii (Greek aktis = ray, thunderbolt, beam + Greek pterygion, diminutive of pteryx = wing, fin.)
Order: Perciformes (Greek, perke = perch + Latin, forma = shape)
Family:Chaetodontidae (Greek, chaite = hair + Greek, odous, odontos = tooth, teeth)
Genera: Amphichaetodon, Chaetodon, Chaetodontops, Chelmon, Chelmonops, Coradion, Forcipiger, Hemitaurichthys, Heniochus, Johnrandallia, Parachaetodon, Peterscottia, Prognathodes, Roa
These are some of the most loved fishes in the hobby and, for the most part, rightfully so. While the majority of butterflyfishes should be left in the wild, a few do make excellent aquarium specimens based on their striking appearance and adaptability to captive environments. These select species ship well, are generally hardy and will remain a staple in the hobby for years to come.
Mertensii Butterflyfish, Orangetail Butterflyfish, Crowned Pearlscale Butterflyfish, Chevron Butterflyfish, Atoll Butterflyfish
Reef Compatible
With Caution
Care Level
Intermediate
Disposition
Peaceful
Min. Tank Size
50 gallons
Mature Size
5 inches
Diet
Carnivore
Range
New Caledonia, Fiji, Indian Ocean