Copperband Butterfly - Chelmon rostratus

Meet the Copperband Butterfly (Chelmon rostratus): A Graceful Beauty for Your Reef Aquarium

Introducing the Copperband Butterfly (Chelmon rostratus), a graceful and alluring fish known for its distinctive appearance and elegant demeanor. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, these beautiful butterflies bring a touch of sophistication to your reef sanctuary.

Key Features:

1. Unique and Graceful Appearance: The Copperband Butterfly showcases a striking pattern of copper-colored bands and a narrow, disk shaped body, creating a unique and graceful appearance. Its delicate beauty makes it a true gem in any reef aquarium.

2. Ideal Tank Size: To ensure their well-being and the freedom to swim gracefully, a tank size of at least 100 gallons (378 liters) is recommended. This provides ample space for them to thrive and display their elegant presence.

3. Reef Compatibility: Copperband Butterflies are known for their peaceful nature and are considered reef-safe with caution, as they may pick at sessile invertebrates and fleshy LPS corals and anemones. 

4. Expert Level: These butterflies are well-suited for aquarists with advanced experience in marine fishkeeping, owing to their delicate nature, and finicky eating habits.

5. Moderate Size: Copperband Butterflies typically reach a moderate size of about 6-8 inches (15.2-20.3 cm), making them an elegant and manageable addition to various marine setups.

Care Instructions:

• Tank Environment: Maintain a well-established reef aquarium with hiding spots, live rock for shelter, and stable water parameters. Keep water temperature within the range of 74-80°F (23-27°C) and maintain a salinity level of 1.023-1.025.

• Feeding: Copperband Butterflies are carnivorous, mostly feeding on sponges, anemones, and other sessile invertebrates in the wild. We've found they do best with a diet of meaty frozen foods, and generally accept clams on a half shell until you can wean them onto other foods. 

• Compatibility: These butterflies are generally peaceful and can coexist with various marine fish, making them a versatile addition to your aquarium community.