Fish Coral Inverts

Yellownose Butterflyfish

Chaetodon xanthocephalus

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Suggested Tank

125+ gallons

Max Size

8 inches

Difficulty

Hard

Temperament

Semi-Aggressive

Description

A large Indian Ocean butterflyfish with a pearly white to pale grey body marked by faint dark chevrons, a broad yellow head band, and bright yellow dorsal, anal and caudal fins. Generally peaceful with dissimilar tankmates but can be territorial toward other butterflyfish of similar pattern, so keep one per tank in a spacious, mature system with plenty of live rock for browsing and a long open swimming lane. It is a picky, coral- and invertebrate-nipping feeder best suited to a fish-only or FOWLR display with pristine water; offer frequent small meals of meaty foods and algae to keep it conditioned.

Reef Safe

Environment

The Yellownose Butterflyfish requires a large tank with plenty of hiding spots and swimming space. It prefers a well-lit tank with a moderate to strong water flow.

Behavior

The Yellownose Butterflyfish is a peaceful fish that can be kept with other peaceful species. It is a diurnal fish, which means it is active during the day and rests at night.

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