Pearlscale Butterflyfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Distributed in the Western Pacific, primarily from Indonesia and the Philippines to Taiwan and southern Japan (Ryukyu Islands). Inhabits deep seaward reefs and steep coral slopes at depths between 6 and 50 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Chaetodontidae. Belongs to the Xanthurus complex alongside C. mertensii, C. madagaskariensis, and C. paucifasciatus. Features a compressed, oval-shaped body reaching up to 14 cm.

Social Behavior: Diurnal and peaceful. Found singly or in stable monogamous pairs in the wild. Once acclimated to the aquarium, it is active and exploratory.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Pearly-white body characterized by a prominent dark crosshatch or chevron pattern on the flanks. The posterior portion of the body and caudal fin are bright orange-yellow. A black bar runs through the eye. No sexual dimorphism is present.

Aquarium Setup: Needs an aquarium of at least 250 liters with plenty of live rock arranged to offer swim-throughs and shelter. A tight-fitting lid is strongly advised to prevent jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore. Feeds naturally on algae and small benthic invertebrates. In captivity, it accepts frozen mysis, brine shrimp, high-quality pellets, flakes, and algae-based preparations.

Water Quality: Requires stable marine parameters. Temperature 22–27°C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity SG 1.020–1.025, GH 15–25, and KH 8–12. Good biological filtration and regular water changes are necessary.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Peaceful toward other fish families. May clash with conspecifics or similar butterflyfishes in smaller aquariums. Reef-safe with caution: not a strict corallivore, but may nip LPS corals if underfed.

Aquarium Reproduction: Undocumented in home aquariums due to a complex pelagic larval stage. Monogamous broadcast spawners in the wild.

Risks and Diseases: Quite hardy compared to most butterflyfishes. High stress during transport can make it vulnerable to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) upon initial introduction.