Common name: African butterflyfish
General information
The African Butterflyfish, Chaetodon dolosus, is a lesser-known species in the butterflyfish family. It is distinguished by its deep, compressed body and the striking pattern of vertical black stripes on a silver or pale background. This species is not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as some of its relatives, but it can be a unique and attractive addition to a fish-only or a larger reef aquarium with peaceful tank mates.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 20 cm (8″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs varied diet & hiding places
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp, and algae
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often more peaceful
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at coral polyps
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial, especially in pairs
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesAfrican butterflyfishChaetodon dolosus Ahl, 1923
- SynonymsChaetodon mendoncae Smith, 1953
Care
Chaetodon dolosus requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places among live rock. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at corals and invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health. Care should be taken to ensure they are not outcompeted for food by more aggressive feeders.
Reproduction
Little is known about the breeding habits of Chaetodon dolosus in the wild or in captivity. Like many butterflyfish, they are likely to form monogamous pairs and are pelagic spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.
Habitat
The African Butterflyfish is native to the Western Indian Ocean, including the coastal regions of East Africa and the Red Sea. They are typically found in shallow, coastal habitats and around coral reefs where they can feed on a variety of small invertebrates and zooplankton.