Common name: Blueblotch butterflyfish

General information

The Blue Blotch Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon plebeius, is a captivating species admired for its striking coloration and patterns. This species is characterized by its silver-white body adorned with a series of vertical black stripes and a distinctive blue blotch on the upper part of its body, near the dorsal fin. The Blue Blotch Butterflyfish is a member of the family Chaetodontidae, which is known for its diverse and ornately patterned species.

Care

Chaetodon plebeius requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not considered the easiest species to keep due to their specialized dietary needs, often requiring a varied diet of coral polyps, benthic invertebrates, and algae. It is crucial to provide a diet that mimics their natural feeding habits to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue Blotch Butterflyfish are oviparous, with pairs forming during the breeding season and engaging in a courtship dance before releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. The eggs are pelagic, drifting in the open ocean until hatching. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but understanding their natural reproductive behavior can be beneficial for potential breeding programs.

Habitat

The Blue Blotch Butterflyfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seen at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. Their preference for coral-rich environments makes them sensitive to changes in coral health, and they can serve as indicators of reef well-being.