Chaetodon ulietensis

Datasheet

General Description

The Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish (Chaetodon ulietensis) belongs to the Chaetodontidae family, known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Often found in Indo-Pacific waters from the Cocos-Keeling Islands to the Tuamoto Islands and north to Japan, these fish are part of a group that shares remarkable similarities, necessitating a keen eye to distinguish among them based on origin and subtle variations in color and pattern.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums, the Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish has a peaceful temperament, thriving best when kept in groups or pairs. They relish swimming freely and therefore necessitate an aquarium with ample space, including sufficient hiding spots among live rocks. These fish can be initially shy when introduced to a new environment, so it is recommended to acclimate them gradually.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

The hardy Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish acclimatizes better as juveniles and must be fed a varied diet multiple times daily, especially when newly introduced. These fish are known to feed on large polyp stone corals (LPS) and soft corals, making it crucial to provide them with appropriate food choices. They require good hiding spots and may nibble on tubeworms, anemones, and occasionally clams. It is essential to buy healthy specimens to avoid potential feeding and acclimatization challenges.

Reef Suitability

With a note indicating they are not reef-safe, Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish may pose a threat to anemones and exhibit a tendency to nibble on clams, including Tridacna species. As they enjoy eating tubeworms, caution should be exercised when considering them for a reef aquarium, as they might disturb the delicate ecosystem.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish, ensure there are numerous hiding spots provided by live rocks. Additionally, incorporating a varied diet that includes larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton will cater to their nutritional needs. Maintaining stable water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C is crucial for their well-being.

Behaviour

Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish are generally peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish in a community tank. They may show territorial behavior at times, particularly if kept in pairs or groups, but typically pose no issues living alongside compatible tankmates.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish must include a varied diet comprising larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. Since they have specific dietary requirements, it is essential to provide foods that mimic their natural diet, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition for their overall health and well-being.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Pacific double-saddle butterflyfish are found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, and various regions of the East and Central/West Pacific. Their distribution ranges from the Cocos-Keeling Islands to the Tuamoto Islands and extends north to Japan, thriving in tropical marine environments characterized by the presence of LPS corals, soft corals, anemones, and tubeworms.