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 Seychelles Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon madagaskariensis, is a member of the Chaetodontidae family, characterized by its attractive patterns and colors. Belonging to the Xanthurus complex, this species can grow up to 13.0cm in size and is primarily found in the Indian Ocean, from East Africa to the Cocos-Keeling and Christmas islands, north to Sri Lanka.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums, the Seychelles Butterflyfish thrives best in a well-established tank of at least 300 liters with ample swimming space and hiding spots among live rocks. Despite being mostly peaceful, caution is advised when keeping them with similar species due to potential aggression. They are known to nibble at clams and feed on tubeworms, preferring a varied diet that includes large polyp stone coral (LPS), small polyp stone coral (SPS), and soft coral.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
This species is hardy and docile but may exhibit aggression towards its own kind. It requires frequent feeding, several times a day, especially when introduced to a new environment. Seychelles Butterflyfish need hiding places, a varied diet, and an aquarium well-stocked with algae for grazing. They are best kept as single fish due to their tendency to thrive better alone.
Reef Suitability
Classified as not reef-safe, the Seychelles Butterflyfish poses a threat to corals due to its feeding habits. It targets soft corals, Zoanthus, anemones, tubeworms, and bristleworms, making it unsuitable for reef environments.
Aquarium Setup
To accommodate Seychelles Butterflyfish, the aquarium should have a stable temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and alkalinity (KH) between 8-12. Providing a well-structured tank with appropriate lighting, hiding spots, and a varied diet consisting of macroalgae, microalgae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton is crucial for their well-being.
Behaviour
Known for their shyness and occasional territorial behavior, Seychelles Butterflyfish are generally peaceful towards other fish species. They may require time to acclimatize to a new environment and should be carefully monitored for signs of stress, parasites, or infections.
Feeding and Diet
These fish must be fed a diverse diet, including live zooplankton, mussels with crushed shells, and their natural food sources like SPS and LPS corals. Ensuring they receive a balanced diet with the necessary supplements and feeding several times a day is essential for their health.
Dimorphism
In terms of dimorphism and captive reproduction, information specific to the Seychelles Butterflyfish is not provided in the available data.
Habitat and Distribution
Primarily found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, the Red Sea, and Indonesia, the Seychelles Butterflyfish inhabits reefs and coastal areas rich in coral formations. Their distribution extends from East Africa to Sri Lanka, encompassing regions like Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and the Cocos-Keeling islands.