Chaetodon semilarvatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon semilarvatus, belongs to the Chaetodontidae family. This species is often grouped in a complex due to their striking resemblance, with minor variations that can impact their care requirements. It can grow up to 28.0cm in size and is recognized for its attractive patterns and colors, typical of Butterflyfish species. Originating from the Western Indian Ocean, specifically the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, this fish displays a peaceful temperament and lacks the distinctive spines found on Angelfish, its close relatives.

Aquarium Suitability and Demands

The Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish is best suited for experienced aquarists willing to provide the extra care it demands. It acclimatizes better when introduced at a juvenile stage and requires a tank size of at least 600 liters. This species can be kept alone or in multiple specimens in a well-equipped aquarium with ample space for swimming and hiding places, such as live rocks.

Care and Hardiness

Considered of average hardiness, this Butterflyfish needs a varied diet containing larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. It is essential to feed them multiple times a day, especially when first introduced, to ensure they adapt to captive feeding habits. Regular monitoring for parasites and infections is crucial to maintain their health.

Reef Suitability

The Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish is labeled as not reef-safe due to its tendency to nibble at clams, including Tridacna species, and its preference for eating tubeworms. They may pose a risk to coral reef environments due to their feeding habits.

Aquarium Setup

To cater to the needs of the Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish, an aquarium should mimic its natural habitat with a variety of hiding spots and live rocks. Maintaining stable water conditions, with parameters ranging from a temperature of 22.2-25.6°C, pH of 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, is crucial for their well-being.

Behaviour

This species is generally peaceful towards other fish but should be cautiously kept with similar species unless they are a compatible pair. Acquiring healthy specimens is key, as acclimatizing these fish can be challenging, especially concerning their feeding habits.

Feeding and Diet

While the Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish primarily feeds on coral polyps in the wild, providing suitable alternative food is crucial for their survival in captivity. Being prepared with various food types, including live corals, mussels, and zooplankton, is recommended to prevent feeding problems and ensure their dietary needs are met.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish inhabits coral reef environments. Its natural diet includes large polyp stone coral (LPS) and soft coral, highlighting the importance of understanding its habitat and dietary preferences.