Common name: Golden butterflyfish

General information

The Japanese Butterflyfish, or Pearlscale Butterflyfish, is a striking species known for its pearly white scales with a yellow to orange hue towards the back and a distinctive black vertical band through the eye. This species is scientifically known as Chaetodon auripes. It is not as commonly kept as some other butterflyfish due to its specific dietary requirements.

Care

Chaetodon auripes can be a challenging species to keep in home aquariums. They require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. This species is known to feed on coral polyps and small invertebrates in the wild, so it may not be suitable for a reef tank with sensitive corals. A varied diet including marine algae, small crustaceans, and high-quality frozen and dried preparations will help maintain their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Japanese 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 with the currents until they settle and metamorphose into juveniles. Breeding them in captivity is quite difficult and not commonly achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Native to the Western Pacific, Chaetodon auripes is found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs. They are typically observed in pairs or small groups and can be found at depths from shallow waters to about 30 meters. Their range includes Japan, Taiwan, and the East China Sea down to the Philippines and the northwest coast of Australia.