More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 400 litres / 105.67 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 Blackwedged butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon falcula, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. These fish are part of a group known as a "complex" due to their striking similarities, with slight variations in color and patterns distinguishing between species. They are recognized for their attractive patterns and colors, lacking the spines present in Angelfish. Originating from the East African waters down to 27°S and east to Indonesia in the Indian Ocean, this species is distinct for its dietary preferences, which include consuming large polyp stone coral and soft coral.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums with care, the Blackwedged butterflyfish requires a well-established tank with ample space for swimming and hiding places within live rocks. They should be housed in peaceful community setups, as they generally ignore other fish but may exhibit aggressiveness towards similar species.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Being hardy fish, they can thrive in water conditions where the temperature ranges from 22.2-25.6°C, pH from 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity from 1.020-1.025. These species mandate frequent feedings throughout the day, especially during the initial stages of introduction. Offering a varied diet is crucial for their health, including larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, zooplankton, and other invertebrates.
Reef Suitability
The Blackwedged butterflyfish is not considered reef-safe, as they may consume glass anemones and are incompatible with most coral species due to their natural feeding habits.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, ensure your aquarium has a minimum size of 400 liters and is well-maintained with algae-covered rocks to provide grazing opportunities. Providing a diverse diet, sufficient hiding spots, and enough open water space are essential for their well-being.
Behaviour
These fish typically exhibit a peaceful temperament but can display aggression towards similar species, making it crucial to monitor tank dynamics when housing multiple Blackwedged butterflyfish together.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet primarily consists of LPS corals, soft corals, glass anemones, tubeworms, and bristleworms. Feeding them a varied diet rich in supplements like algae, Spirulina, shrimp, crabs, krill, and mysis is recommended for their nutritional requirements.
Habitat and Distribution
In their natural habitat spanning the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, and Indonesia, Blackwedged butterflyfish are commonly found grazing on algae-covered rocks, hunting for soft corals, and foraging on invertebrates like tubeworms.