More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 12.0cm / 4.72inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Docile |
| 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 Spotband Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon punctatofasciatus, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. These fish are characterized by their attractive patterns and colors, lacking the spines that Angelfish have on the sides of their heads. They are part of a genus complex where species can vary greatly in their needs, with subtle differences in color or pattern requiring attention to origin.
Aquarium Suitability
The Spotband Butterflyfish is suitable for aquariums with a capacity of at least 300 liters. They can thrive individually or in groups, with a preference for hiding spots among live rocks. Due to their docile temperament, caution is advised when housing them with more aggressive tank mates. Regular feeding multiple times a day is essential, especially initially. It is crucial to ensure a well-established environment with ample grazing space and rock algae in the aquarium for their well-being.
Care and Hardiness
These fish have an average hardiness level and require a varied diet that includes large polyp stone corals, soft corals, microalgae like spirulina, larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. They lean towards a docile temperament and need a swim-friendly tank setup.
Reef Suitability
The Spotband Butterflyfish is not considered reef safe due to its tendency to nibble on clams, including Tridacna species, and feed on tubeworms. Their dietary preferences can pose a threat to coral reefs in a closed system.
Aquarium Setup
A well-maintained tank that mimics their natural habitat with live rocks, ample swimming space, and hiding places is ideal for Spotband Butterflyfish. Ensuring proper water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 is crucial for their health.
Behaviour
Spotband Butterflyfish are known to be shy and peaceful towards other fish species. They are social beings that can coexist harmoniously in groups, but care should be taken when pairing similar species together unless they are a mating couple.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet revolves around live SPS or LPS corals, bristleworms, tubeworms, and other small invertebrates. Ensuring they receive their preferred food sources is crucial, as some species may refuse replacement foods. Feeding them multiple times a day and providing algae-rich supplements like spirulina are essential for their nutrition.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, Spotband Butterflyfish can be found in the East Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific regions. Their distribution ranges from Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean to the Line Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to Rowley Shoals and the northern Great Barrier Reef.