Common name: Golden butterflyfish

General information

The Modest Butterflyfish, also known as the Blue-dashed Butterflyfish, is a lesser-known species in the aquarium trade but is appreciated for its subtle beauty. It is characterized by its silver-white body with thin, blue vertical lines and a distinctive blue margin on its dorsal and anal fins. This species is not as vibrant as some other butterflyfish, but its elegance lies in its simplicity.

Care

Chaetodon modestus 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 specialized dietary needs, often feeding on coral polyps and benthic invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, along with supplements to mimic their natural diet.

Reproduction

Little is known about the breeding habits of the Modest Butterflyfish in the wild or in captivity. They are generally considered difficult to breed in home aquariums, and most specimens are wild-caught.

Habitat

The Modest Butterflyfish is found in the Western Pacific, from southern Japan to the South China Sea and the Coral Sea. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters. They are often observed in pairs or small groups, swimming close to the reef structure.