More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 12.0cm / 4.72inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Unknown |
| 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 Hooded Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon larvatus, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family within the Chaetodon genus. This species is part of a complex of butterflyfish known for their resemblance and slight variations in needs and origins that are crucial for their care.
Aquarium Suitability
Regrettably, the Hooded Butterflyfish is not suitable for home aquariums due to its unique dietary requirements, primarily feeding on coral polyps, with a specific preference for small polyp stone corals (SPS). This species will not survive on replacement foods, making it a challenging choice for most aquarium enthusiasts.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
With an average level of hardiness, these fish require a tank of at least 300 liters with ample hiding spaces within live rocks and significant open swimming areas due to their active nature. Acclimatizing them to aquarium life can be challenging, as they are prone to difficulties in adjusting and feeding.
Reef Suitability
The Hooded Butterflyfish is considered not reef-safe, as it tends to nibble on clam species, including Tridacna species, and primarily feeds on coral polyps, making it incompatible with most reef setups.
Aquarium Setup
Setting up an aquarium for the Hooded Butterflyfish involves providing numerous hiding spots within live rocks, a spacious environment for swimming, and a diet consisting of live SPS corals to ensure their well-being. Water conditions should ideally maintain a temperature range of 22.2-25.6 degrees Celsius, pH levels between 8.1-8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Behaviour
Though the temperament of the Hooded Butterflyfish is marked as unknown, these fish generally ignore other tankmates and are peaceful in nature. They can be kept together in multiples but should be monitored when cohabiting with similar species to prevent conflicts.
Feeding and Diet
This species primarily feeds on coral polyps, especially SPS corals, and requires their natural diet to thrive. Offering live zooplankton, live mussels with crushed shells, or imitating their feeding behavior by placing food in coral skeletons can help in acclimating them to aquarium diets.
Habitat and Distribution
Hailing from the Western Indian Ocean, specifically the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the Hooded Butterflyfish inhabits coral-rich environments where it can feed on coral polyps and thrive in natural reef settings.