Common name: Narrow-barred butterflyfish
General information
The Melba Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Amphichaetodon melbae, is a striking species known for its elegant appearance and relatively peaceful demeanor. This species is characterized by its yellow body, black vertical stripes, and a distinctive 'chevron' pattern on the sides. A prominent feature is the elongated dorsal fin, which gives it a unique silhouette in the water column.
Melba Butterflyfish are not as common in the aquarium trade as some other butterflyfish, partly due to their size and specific dietary requirements. They are best suited for larger, well-established aquariums where they can be provided with a varied diet and plenty of swimming space.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet including mysis.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at small fish.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusHowell's ButterflyfishAmphichaetodon
- SpeciesNarrow-barred butterflyfishAmphichaetodon melbae Burgess & Caldwell, 1978
- SynonymsChaetodon aureus Molina, 1782Chaetodon chilensis Gmelin, 1789
Care
Amphichaetodon melbae requires a spacious tank to accommodate its swimming behavior and territorial nature. They thrive in a stable environment with high water quality, so regular maintenance and water changes are essential. Their diet should include a mix of meaty foods and marine algae to mimic their natural feeding habits. It's important to note that Melba Butterflyfish may nip at soft and stony corals, so they are not the best choice for a reef tank with a variety of corals.
Reproduction
In the wild, Melba Butterflyfish form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic, drifting in the currents until they develop into juveniles and settle onto the reef. Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare and challenging due to the need for precise environmental conditions.
Habitat
Amphichaetodon melbae is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically associated with coral reefs, often observed at depths where light penetration supports coral growth. They prefer clear waters and are often seen in pairs or small groups, patrolling their territory and feeding on a variety of small invertebrates and algae.