Copperband Butterfly (Chelmon rostratus)
Max Size: 8 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution. May eat soft polyps
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallon
The Copperband Butterflyfish, also referred to as the Beaked Butterflyfish, Beaked Coralfish, or Orange Stripe Butterfly, possesses a distinctive elongated snout and mouth which it employs to search for food within crevices and holes. Its striking appearance is characterized by yellow-orange vertical bands with a black outline, along with a false eyespot positioned at the rear of its dorsal fin. This species is easily distinguishable from other fish.
To provide optimal care for the Copperband Butterflyfish, it is advisable to house them in large reef aquariums or peaceful community tanks. They are best kept individually, without conspecifics or other butterflyfish species, and should not be housed with fish that induce stress. It is important to exercise caution when integrating them into a reef aquarium as they may exhibit a tendency to prey on invertebrates, particularly anemones and feather dusters. However, they can serve as highly effective fish for controlling aiptasia or glass anemones in a reef aquarium.
Feeding the Copperband Butterflyfish can be a challenge as they are cautious and deliberate feeders. In order to encourage feeding, it is recommended to offer them a diverse range of food options.
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