Copperband Butterfly - Chelmon rostratus

The Copperband Butterflyfish, also known as the Copperband Butterfly, is a striking marine fish recognized by its elongated snout, vertical orange stripes, and graceful swimming behavior. Highly admired for its beauty, this species requires careful attention in captivity due to its specialized diet and sensitivity, making it best suited for experienced aquarists and established reef tanks.

Description:

Common Names: Copperband Butterflyfish, Copperband Butterfly

Scientific Name: Chelmon rostratus

Family: Chaetodontidae

Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Reef Safe: With caution

Native Region:

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern Australia, inhabiting coral-rich lagoons and reef slopes.

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-rich environment with ample hiding places; requires open swimming space and mature, stable water conditions.

Additional Tips:

• Diet: Carnivorous—feeds on small invertebrates, tube worms, and other meaty foods; may require acclimation to frozen mysis or brine shrimp in captivity.

• Behavior: Active and graceful swimmer; may nip at sessile invertebrates such as tube worms and some coral polyps.

• Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; generally reef safe with caution due to potential coral nipping.

• Care Note: Sensitive to water quality fluctuations and diet changes; best kept by experienced aquarists with established reef systems.