Common name: Gardner's butterflyfish

General information

Gardiner's Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon gardineri, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a part of the diverse butterflyfish family. They are known for their striking coloration, typically featuring a yellow body with a series of vertical white bands and a black eye spot on the dorsal fin. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other butterflyfish, but it can be a captivating addition to a well-established reef tank.

Care

Gardiner's Butterflyfish are relatively hardy once acclimated but can be sensitive to poor water quality and abrupt changes in their environment. They require a tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. This species is known to be somewhat reef safe, but they may nip at soft corals and some invertebrates. A varied diet of marine meats, algae, and high-quality prepared foods is essential for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, butterflyfish are generally monogamous and are known to form long-term pair bonds. Breeding in captivity is rare, but with optimal conditions, it is possible. They engage in a courtship dance before spawning, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The eggs are pelagic, drifting with the currents until they hatch.

Habitat

Gardiner's Butterflyfish are found in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around the Maldives, Chagos Archipelago, and the Lakshadweep Islands. They inhabit shallow lagoons and coral-rich areas of the reef, typically at depths of 2 to 15 meters. They are often observed in pairs or small groups, swimming close to the reef structure.