Pearlscale Butterflyfish

Chaetodon xanthurus

(1)

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Suggested Tank

70+ gallons

Max Size

6 inches

Difficulty

Medium

Temperament

Peaceful

Description

A compact, pearly-white butterflyfish whose dark-edged scales form a crisp crosshatch or net-like lattice, set off by a black eye bar and a broad orange-yellow band across the rear body and tail. It is one of the hardier, better-adapting butterflyfish for a fish-only or FOWLR system, generally peaceful but scrappy toward other similarly patterned butterflies in tight quarters. Give it a 70-gallon or larger tank with plenty of rockwork for grazing and retreat, stable water, and a varied meaty diet offered several times daily; it will pick at corals, anemones, tube worms, and small ornamental shrimp.

Reef Safe

No

Environment

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish thrives in a well-lit aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces. It prefers a tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. It is important to maintain high water quality as this species is sensitive to poor water conditions.

Behavior

This species is generally peaceful but may become territorial with other butterflyfish. They are known to be active swimmers and are most active during the day.

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Owner Reviews

Overall Rating:
Would Buy Again: 👍 Yes
What You Feed: PE Mysis

Stunning fish with an orange lower half and latticed pattern. Great addition to any Fowler.

Reef Safe: No
Visibility: Always Visible
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Medium
Min Tank Size: 75 Gallons

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Pearlscale Butterflyfish

Chaetodon xanthurus

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