Chaetodon daedalma

Datasheet

General Description

The Wrought Iron Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon daedalma, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. This species is grouped with others in a "complex," where they share striking similarities but can vary significantly in their requirements. They are recognized for their attractive patterns and colors, distinct from Angelfish by the absence of spines on the head. Wrought Iron Butterflyfish typically consume soft corals, LPS corals, anemones, tubeworms, and bristleworms as part of their diet.

Aquarium Suitability

Characterized as suitable with care, these Butterflyfish are peaceful in temperament and can be kept in groups if caution is exercised, especially when housing similar species together unless they are a mated pair. They can thrive in aquariums as small as 300 liters and require ample hiding places provided by live rocks. It is crucial to offer a varied diet consisting of microalgae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton to maintain their health and well-being.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

The Wrought Iron Butterflyfish is considered hardy and can adapt to aquarium conditions, flourishing when offered a diverse diet and plenty of space for swimming. These fish have a voracious appetite for tubeworms and occasionally nibble on clams. They are best kept in a healthy state initially to avoid acclimation issues and are susceptible to parasites, so careful monitoring is essential.

Reef Suitability

Not deemed reef-safe, Wrought Iron Butterflyfish should not be placed in reef aquariums due to their tendency to nip at clams, including Tridacna species. They may also consume tubeworms, posing a risk to the delicate ecosystem of a reef setup.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for the Wrought Iron Butterflyfish requires live rocks to provide hiding spots and sufficient swimming space. Care should be taken to mimic their natural environment, potentially by placing food within coral skeletons or stones. Maintaining water conditions within the recommended parameters of pH 8.1-8.4, temperature ranging from 22.2-25.6°C, and salinity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being.

Behaviour

These Butterflyfish exhibit peaceful behavior towards other tank mates and can coexist with multiple individuals of their species. However, it is paramount to introduce them carefully and monitor for any signs of aggression, particularly in the presence of similar species.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding Wrought Iron Butterflyfish a varied diet that includes microalgae, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods is vital for their nutritional needs. Offering live zooplankton or mussels with crushed shells initially can help entice them to feed, mimicking their natural feeding behaviors.

Habitat and Distribution

Originating from Japan, Wrought Iron Butterflyfish are found in the wild in coastal areas of Japan. They inhabit areas with rich coral diversity, where they feed on various coral species, tubeworms, and other small invertebrates in their natural habitat.