Eight-Banded Butterflyfish - Chaetodon octofasciatus

The Eight-Banded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon octofasciatus) is a striking marine fish recognized for its vertical black bands set against a bright yellow body. While beautiful, this species is known for being delicate in captivity and requires specialized care, making it best suited for experienced aquarists.

Description:

Common Name: Eight-Banded Butterflyfish

Scientific Name: Chaetodon octofasciatus

Family: Chaetodontidae

Size: Up to 5 inches (13 cm)

Temperament: Peaceful

Difficulty: Difficult

Reef Safe: No

Native Region:

Native to the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Andaman Sea and Indonesia to the Philippines and the Great Barrier Reef, typically found on coral-rich lagoons and seaward reefs.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

pH: 8.0–8.4

Salinity: 1.023–1.025

Substrate: Live rock aquascape with ample swimming space; requires mature tanks with natural grazing opportunities.

Additional Tips:

• Feeding: Primarily feeds on coral polyps in the wild; can be very challenging to wean onto prepared foods. Offer live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and specialized frozen preparations for butterflyfish.

• Reef Safety: May nip at corals, especially SPS and soft corals, as well as clam mantles.

• Care Level: Not recommended for beginners due to feeding challenges and sensitivity to water quality.

• Tankmates: Best kept with peaceful species; avoid aggressive tankmates that may outcompete them for food.