Chaetodon multicinctus

Datasheet

General Description
The Pebbled Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon multicinctus, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. This species is part of a group of closely resembling fish known as a "complex", with small differences in color or pattern that can be crucial in understanding their specific requirements. Native to the Eastern Central Pacific, specifically the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll, these fish are characterized by their attractive patterns and colors, distinct from Angelfish by the absence of spines on each side of the head.

Aquarium Suitability
Considered unsuitable for home aquariums, Pebbled Butterflyfish have specific dietary requirements, primarily feeding on coral polyps. Their diet comprises live SPS corals, making it challenging to sustain them without their natural food source. They can also exhibit aggression towards similar species, emphasizing the importance of cautious species selection when introducing them to a tank environment.

Demands, Care and Hardiness
With an average hardiness level, these fish prefer ample space for swimming and require good hiding spots within live rocks in the aquarium. It is crucial to ensure they are introduced simultaneously when kept as a pair to promote harmony within the tank.

Reef Suitability
Not considered reef-safe, Pebbled Butterflyfish may pose a threat to the coral population in a reef setup due to their diet consisting mainly of coral polyps.

Aquarium Setup
Setting up a tank for Pebbled Butterflyfish should include plenty of live rocks providing hiding places and sufficient open space for swimming. Keeping in mind their territorial nature, creating a well-structured environment with appropriate hiding spots is crucial for their well-being.

Behaviour
Typically peaceful towards other fish, Pebbled Butterflyfish may manifest aggression towards similar species if not properly paired. They thrive in an environment where they can swim freely and access hiding places within the aquarium.

Feeding and Diet
These fish predominantly feed on coral polyps, emphasizing the challenge of sustaining them in a home aquarium without their natural diet. Their dietary preference for live SPS corals restricts their suitability for most hobbyist setups, making them a challenging species to maintain.

Habitat and Distribution
Found in the Central/West Pacific region, specifically around the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll, Pebbled Butterflyfish inhabit coral-rich environments where they can feed on coral polyps as their primary food source.