Common name: Yellow-crowned butterflyfish

General information

The Yellow-crowned Butterflyfish, Chaetodon flavocoronatus, is a vibrant and relatively rare species in the aquarium trade. It is known for its striking yellow crown, which contrasts beautifully with its white body and black vertical bands. This species is not as commonly kept as some other butterflyfish due to its specific dietary requirements and sensitivity to captive conditions.

Care

Yellow-crowned Butterflyfish are best suited for experienced aquarists due to their specialized feeding habits. They primarily feed on coral polyps and benthic invertebrates in the wild, so providing a varied diet that includes live foods and preparations for butterflyfish is crucial. A larger, well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding is recommended.

Reproduction

Like many marine fish, Chaetodon flavocoronatus has a pelagic larval stage. In the wild, they spawn during dusk, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring specific conditions and expert care.

Habitat

Yellow-crowned Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and parts of the Indian Ocean. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 20 meters. Their preference for live coral means they are sensitive to changes in water quality and coral health.