Common name: Bluelashed butterflyfish

General information

Bennett's Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon bennetti, is a vibrant and attractive species popular among marine aquarists. This species is known for its striking coloration, with a yellow body, black vertical stripes, and a distinctive blue patch around the eyes. They are often sought after for their beauty and the dynamic presence they bring to a reef tank.

Care

Bennett's Butterflyfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not the easiest species to keep due to their specific dietary needs, often requiring a varied diet of coral polyps, small invertebrates, and marine algae. It is crucial to provide them with a diet that includes live foods to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Bennett's 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 open ocean before settling down and transforming into juveniles. Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare and challenging.

Habitat

Bennett's Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands, and from Japan to Australia. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. Their natural environment is characterized by clear waters and robust coral growth, which is essential for their feeding habits.