Redtail Butterflyfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to the Western Indo-Pacific, from the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf to Indonesia and the Philippines, north to southern Japan. Inhabits outer reef slopes and current-swept drop-offs at depths of 3 to 15 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the genus Chaetodon. Grows to a maximum length of 18 cm (7 inches). Features a deep, circular body with a short snout.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and shy. Naturally swims in pairs or aggregates in large shoals during spawning. Can be easily startled by active movement.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Chocolate-brown to dark grey body with golden centers on the scales, creating a reticulated appearance. Features a white collar behind the eyes, and a bright red tail with a black band and white edge. No visible sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Needs at least 350 liters of tank volume with extensive live rock forming wide arches and deep caves for shelter. Dimmed lighting is preferred during acclimation.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous/Corallivore. Extremely difficult to feed initially. Must be offered fresh minced clams, mussels, frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and lobster eggs. Feed 3 times daily.

Water Quality: Highly sensitive to water quality. Requires optimal filtration and stability: temperature 22-28°C (72-82°F), pH 8.0-8.5, specific gravity 1.022-1.025, GH 15-25, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: NOT reef-safe. Will eat coral polyps and sessile invertebrates. Best suited for FOWLR systems with peaceful tankmates. Excellent when kept in pairs.

Aquarium Reproduction: Unrecorded in home aquariums. Pelagic spawners.

Risks and Diseases: Highly susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) if stressed. High risk of starvation if not offered specialized foods during acclimation.