Common name: Red Sea melon butterflyfish
General information
The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon austriacus, is a striking species native to the Red Sea. It is characterized by its vibrant yellow body, black eye band, and white snout, which resemble the facial markings of a raccoon, hence its common name. This species is part of the family Chaetodontidae and is appreciated for its beauty and relatively peaceful demeanor in the aquarium setting.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 18 cm (7″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy May nip at soft corals
- Diet
- Omnivore Prefers varied diet, incl. coral polyps
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often monogamous
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals and clams
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesRed Sea melon butterflyfishChaetodon austriacus Rüppell, 1836
- SynonymsChaetodon klunzingeri Kossman & Räuber, 1877Chaetodon trifasciatus austriacus Rüppell, 1836Chaetodon trifasciatus klunzingeri Kossman & Räuber, 1877Citharoedus austriacus (Ruppell, 1836)
Care
Chaetodon austriacus requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as sessile invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods, marine flakes, and pellets is essential for their health. They are best kept in a fish-only or fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) setup to prevent damage to coral specimens.
Reproduction
In the wild, Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Raising the larvae in captivity is challenging due to their planktonic nature and specific dietary requirements.
Habitat
The natural habitat of Chaetodon austriacus is the coral-rich areas and lagoons of the Red Sea. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 20 meters. Their preference for coral environments makes them a fascinating species to observe as they navigate the complex structures of the reef.