More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 13.0cm / 5.12inches |
| 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 Chaetodon citrinellus, commonly known as the Speckled butterflyfish, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. These fish are recognized for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, sharing similarities with other species within the Chaetodon genus. These fish are part of a "complex," often requiring specific care due to variations in color, pattern, and habitat origins.
Aquarium Suitability
The Speckled butterflyfish can be considered suitable for aquariums with caution. They are known to be peaceful creatures when interacting with other fish but may exhibit aggression towards similar species. These fish are recommended to be housed in pairs if introduced simultaneously and necessitate ample hiding spots within live rocks due to their shy and docile nature.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
With an average hardiness level, these fish require a well-established aquarium with sufficient space for swimming. They thrive best in tanks with a minimum size of 300 liters. The Speckled butterflyfish enjoys grazing on algae-rich rocks and stones. Offering a varied diet consisting of macroalgae, microalgae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton is essential for their well-being.
Reef Suitability
The Speckled butterflyfish is not considered reef-safe due to its tendency to feed on various coral species, including large polyp stone coral, small polyp stone coral, soft coral, and sponges. Their diet may also include tubeworms, making them potentially harmful to reef environments.
Aquarium Setup
Ideal aquarium setups for Speckled butterflyfish include well-run tanks with ample algae growth for grazing. Providing enough hiding places among live rocks and maintaining appropriate water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature of 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 are vital for their health.
Behaviour
These butterflyfish are predominantly peaceful creatures that do not typically show aggression towards other fish species. However, caution is advised when housing them with similar species unless they are a mated pair.
Feeding and Diet
The Speckled butterflyfish primarily feeds on large and small polyp stone corals, soft corals, sponges, and tubeworms in their natural habitat. In captivity, they require a varied diet that should include macroalgae, microalgae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Habitat and Distribution
Originally found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Tuamoto islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New South Wales and Lord Howe Island in Australia, the Speckled butterflyfish inhabits a wide range of waters.