Common name: paleface butterflyfish

Scientific name: Chaetodon mesoleucos Forsskål, 1775
Coral fish - Tropical fish - Whiteface butterflyfish (Chaetodon  mesoleucos ) in Red sea                                                                                           Coral fish - Tropical fish - Whiteface butterflyfish (Chaetodon  mesoleucos ) in Red sea
Coral fish - Tropical fish - Whiteface butterflyfish (Chaetodon  mesoleucos ) in Red sea                                                                                           Coral fish - Tropical fish - Whiteface butterflyfish (Chaetodon  mesoleucos ) in Red sea

General information

The Fiji Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon mesoleucos, is a striking species known for its distinct black and white coloration. This species is part of the large butterflyfish family, which is appreciated for their vibrant colors and patterns. The Fiji Butterflyfish is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other butterflyfish, but it can be a rewarding addition for experienced aquarists.

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 Prefers live rock for grazing
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
Social
Pair Pairs are often monogamous
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Butterflyfish
    Chaetodontidae
  6. Genus
    Butterflyfish
    Chaetodon
  7. Species
    paleface butterflyfish
    Chaetodon mesoleucos Forsskål, 1775
  8. Synonyms
    Chaetodon hadjan Bloch & Schneider, 1801
    Chaetodon mesoleucor Forsskål, 1775
    Chaetodon mesoleucus Forsskål, 1775

Care

Chaetodon mesoleucos requires 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, benthic invertebrates, and algae. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, as well as foods designed for marine herbivores.

Reproduction

Like many marine fish, the Fiji Butterflyfish is an egg scatterer, releasing eggs into the water column where fertilization occurs. The eggs are pelagic, drifting with the currents until hatching. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly done by hobbyists.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships like clownfish with anemones, butterflyfish do play a role in the reef ecosystem by controlling algae and invertebrate populations, which can be beneficial in a balanced aquarium setup.

Habitat

The natural habitat of Chaetodon mesoleucos includes coral reefs and lagoons in the Western Pacific, particularly around Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.