Common name: Blackwedged butterflyfish

General information

The Saddleback Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon falcula, is a striking species popular among marine aquarists. It is easily recognized by its distinctive color pattern, featuring a dark 'saddle' across its back, yellow fins, and a series of vertical white bands on a silver body. This species is part of the large butterflyfish family, which is known for its diverse and colorful members.

Care

Saddleback 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 dietary requirements. In the wild, they feed on coral polyps, tubeworms, and other small invertebrates, so providing a varied diet that includes live foods and marine-based preparations with sponge material is crucial for their well-being.

Reproduction

Like many marine fish, Saddleback Butterflyfish 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.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish and anemones, Saddleback Butterflyfish do play a role in the reef ecosystem by controlling populations of certain invertebrates and potentially aiding in coral health by consuming dead tissue from coral colonies.

Habitat

Saddleback Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to Japan, and south to Australia. They prefer coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, typically at depths of 2 to 20 meters. Their natural habitat includes complex coral structures which provide both food and shelter.