More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 20.0cm / 7.87inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Bluelashed Butterflyfish (Chaetodon bennetti), also known as Eclipse butterflyfish, Bennett's butterflyfish, or Bennett's coralfish, is part of the Chaetodon genus in the Butterflyfish family (Chaetodontidae). This species is recognized for its striking patterns and colors and is distinguishable from Angelfish by the absence of spines on the head.
Aquarium Suitability
Suitability for aquarium keeping is classified as requiring experience, preparation, and extra care due to their specific demands. They are not recommended for beginners due to their feeding preferences and adaptation challenges in captivity.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
It is crucial to have a well-established aquarium with adequate space for swimming and hiding places for this species. They thrive on a varied diet, inclining towards coral polyps, which can pose challenges in captivity. Being average in hardiness, they are prone to feeding problems and may require live corals, mussels, and zooplankton initially.
Reef Suitability
Bluelashed Butterflyfish are deemed not reef-safe due to their tendency to consume coral polyps.
Aquarium Setup
To cater to the needs of Bluelashed Butterflyfish, a minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended. The aquarium should be well-run, providing ample hiding spots among live rocks and suitable grazing areas for algae. Water conditions should be maintained with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and alkalinity (KH) of 8-12.
Behaviour
These fish exhibit mostly peaceful behaviors but can display aggression towards similar species, so caution is advised when kept together unless they form a pair.
Feeding and Diet
Bluelashed Butterflyfish feed on large polyp stone coral, soft coral, microalgae like spirulina, small crustaceans, small polyp stone coral, and zooplankton. Special attention is required to ensure they receive a varied and suitable diet to promote their health and well-being.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Bluelashed Butterflyfish can be found from East Africa to the Pitcairn Group, ranging north to Japan and south to the Lord Howe and Rapa Islands. They typically inhabit areas with rich coral ecosystems and are known to consume a variety of invertebrates like tubeworms in their natural habitat.