Common name: Redtail butterflyfish

General information

The Redtail Butterflyfish, also known as the Collare Butterflyfish or Pakistani Butterflyfish, is a striking species with a strong presence in the aquarium trade. Its scientific name is Chaetodon collare. This species is admired for its vibrant coloration, featuring a yellow body, a black mask across the eyes, and a distinctive red tail. It is a member of the family Chaetodontidae, which is known for its colorful and ornate butterflyfish.

Care

Caring for Redtail Butterflyfish requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can be sensitive to water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and high-quality marine flakes or pellets is essential for their health. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at corals and invertebrates.

Reproduction

In the wild, Redtail 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.

Habitat

Chaetodon collare is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Persian Gulf to Indonesia, and north to Japan. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, typically at depths of 3 to 20 meters. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and clear waters.