Common name: Hooded butterflyfish
General information
The Hooded Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon larvatus, is a striking species known for its unique coloration and pattern. The body is primarily white with a black mask covering the eyes, resembling a hood, which gives rise to its common name. This mask is bordered by a vibrant yellow margin that extends to the dorsal fin. The rest of the dorsal fin is black, contrasting sharply with the white body.
Hooded Butterflyfish are not as common in the aquarium trade as some other butterflyfish due to their specialized dietary needs and sensitivity to captive conditions. They are best suited for experienced aquarists who can meet their care requirements.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 18 cm (7″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Social
- Pair
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesHooded butterflyfishChaetodon larvatus Cuvier, 1831
- SynonymsChaetodon karraf Cuvier, 1831Gonochaetodon larvatus (Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1831)
Care
Chaetodon larvatus requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are known to be picky eaters, with a preference for coral polyps and small invertebrates, which can make them a challenge to feed in captivity. A varied diet that includes marine sponges, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods can help meet their nutritional needs, but they may not adapt well to prepared foods.
Due to their specialized feeding habits, Hooded Butterflyfish are not recommended for reef aquariums as they can damage coral populations. They are best kept in a fish-only or species-specific tank.
Reproduction
In the wild, Chaetodon larvatus forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic and will settle onto the reef after a period of growth in the open ocean.
Breeding Hooded Butterflyfish in captivity is extremely challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists due to the difficulty in replicating the natural spawning conditions and the larval rearing process.
Habitat
The Hooded Butterflyfish is native to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. They are typically found in shallow reef environments, often in pairs or small groups, and can be seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth, which provides both food and shelter.