Chaetodon quadrimaculatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Fourspot butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon quadrimaculatus, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family, known for their vibrant patterns and colors. They are part of a group of species in the Chaetodon genus that share striking similarities. Distinguishing features are important as some variations in their requirements exist, ranging from subtle color differences to distinct origin specifications.

Aquarium Suitability

The Fourspot butterflyfish is suitable for aquarium life but requires careful consideration due to its specific demands. They can be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously and are generally docile yet shy. Adequate hiding spots within live rocks are crucial for their well-being. These fish thrive best in a well-established aquarium with algae for grazing, needing a varied diet that may include living feeds for successful acclimatization.

Care and Hardiness

This species of butterflyfish is considered to have average hardiness, necessitating a tank size of at least 400 liters. They are relatively peaceful towards other fish but might display aggressiveness towards similar species. Providing ample space for swimming is essential for their overall health and happiness in captivity.

Reef Suitability

The Fourspot butterflyfish is not reef-safe, making it unsuitable for reef aquariums due to its potential to nibble on clams, particularly Tridacna species, and have a preference for tubeworms as part of their diet.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the aquarium housing the Fourspot butterflyfish should be well-maintained with rocks and stones rich in algae for grazing. Ensuring sufficient algae on these surfaces is essential, but additional feeding with algae-rich foods like Spirulina may be necessary. Water conditions should be monitored closely, with recommendations for a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6 degrees Celsius, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.

Behaviour

These butterflyfish are typically peaceful and will coexist well with other fish in the aquarium. However, cautious consideration is advised when keeping them with similar species, especially if not in a paired setting. Their shy nature calls for a tranquil tank environment with minimal stressors.

Feeding and Diet

The Fourspot butterflyfish has a diverse diet, feeding on macroalgae (seaweed/nori), microalgae (such as spirulina), various invertebrates, small crustaceans (like krill, mysis, and artemia), and zooplankton (including cyclops and pods). Providing a varied and nutrient-rich diet is essential for their health and well-being in captivity.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Dimorphism information is not specified for the Fourspot butterflyfish. However, some species within the Chaetodontidae family can be bred in captivity, with specific dietary requirements that may include frozen foods for successful reproduction.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Fourspot butterflyfish are found in the Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Ryukyu and Ogasawara Islands to Hawaii, and southward to the Samoan and Austral Islands. They inhabit waters near coral reefs where they can feed on soft corals, LPS corals, anemones, tubeworms, and bristleworms as part of their natural diet, showcasing their ecological importance within reef ecosystems.