Common name: Half-yellow butterflyfish

General information

Smith's Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon smithi, is a vibrant and attractive species popular among marine aquarists. This species is distinguished by its striking coloration, featuring a white body with a broad diagonal black band and a yellow dorsal fin. It is a member of the family Chaetodontidae, which is known for its diverse and colorful representatives.

Care

Smith's Butterflyfish are considered moderately difficult to care for due to their specific dietary requirements. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These fish are not coral-friendly and may nip at soft and stony corals, so they are best kept in a fish-only or a reef tank with caution. A varied diet of meaty foods, marine flakes, and pellets is essential for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Smith's 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 providing a stress-free environment with excellent water quality can encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Smith's Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to Japan, and south to Indonesia. They prefer clear lagoon and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant coral growth, which provides both food and shelter.