Common name: Golden butterflyfish
General information
The Bluecheek Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon semeion, is a vibrant and attractive species popular among marine aquarists. This species is known for its striking coloration, featuring a bright yellow face, a deep blue cheek area, and a series of vertical white bands across its body. The Bluecheek Butterflyfish is a member of the family Chaetodontidae, which is characterized by their disc-shaped bodies and elaborate patterns.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 23 cm (9″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires varied diet and good water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp, and algae.
- Social
- Pair Can be kept in pairs if introduced together.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at coral polyps and clams.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be territorial, especially in smaller tanks.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesGolden butterflyfishChaetodon semeion Bleeker, 1855
- SynonymsChaetodon decoratus Ahl, 1923
Care
Caring for Bluecheek Butterflyfish can be moderately challenging. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. This species is known to be somewhat picky eaters, often preferring live foods or frozen preparations that include marine sponges and invertebrates. It is crucial to provide a varied diet to ensure their health and maintain their vibrant colors.
Reproduction
In the wild, Bluecheek Butterflyfish form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but with optimal conditions and a well-matched pair, spawning behavior may be observed.
Habitat
Bluecheek Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands and the Tuamotu Archipelago. They typically inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, often seen at depths ranging from 3 to 25 meters. Their natural environment is characterized by clear waters and robust coral growth, which should be mimicked in the home aquarium for their well-being.