Common name: Sunset butterflyfish
General information
The Pelewensis Butterflyfish, also known as the Golden Butterflyfish, is a striking species known for its vibrant yellow body and elegant black markings. This fish is a member of the family Chaetodontidae and is appreciated for its beauty and grace in the home aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 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 Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Prefers varied diet, incl. coral polyps.
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often monogamous.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at coral polyps.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesSunset butterflyfishChaetodon pelewensis Kner, 1868
- SynonymsChaetodon germanus De Vis, 1884Chaetodon pelewensis germanus De Vis, 1884
Care
Pelewensis Butterflyfish 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 corals and invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods, including marine fish, crustacean flesh, and mysis shrimp, is essential for their health.
Reproduction
Breeding Pelewensis Butterflyfish in captivity is challenging and rarely successful. In the wild, they are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.
Habitat
Native to the Western Pacific, particularly around Palau and Yap, Pelewensis Butterflyfish are found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs. They prefer clear waters and are typically seen at depths where light penetration supports coral growth.