Common name: Sunburst butterflyfish

General information

Klein's Butterflyfish, also known as the Sunburst Butterflyfish or Orange Butterflyfish, is a colorful and popular species in the marine aquarium trade. This species is recognized by its yellow to orange body with scattered dark spots and a vertical black band through the eye. It is a relatively hardy species that can adapt to life in captivity if provided with the right conditions.

Care

Klein's Butterflyfish are moderately easy to care for but do require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as sessile invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and high-quality commercial preparations will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Klein's Butterflyfish form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Raising the larvae in captivity is challenging and not commonly done by hobbyists.

Habitat

Klein's Butterflyfish are found in a variety of reef environments, from shallow lagoons to deeper outer reefs. They are typically seen at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters. Their natural distribution spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific.