Common name: Three-striped butterflyfish
General information
The Threeband Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon tricinctus, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a member of the butterflyfish family. This species is known for its striking coloration, with three distinctive black vertical bands on a white or silver background, and a yellow to orange posterior. It is a relatively rare sight in the aquarium trade compared to other butterflyfish.
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 live foods, adapts to frozen.
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often monogamous.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at coral polyps.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially in pairs.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusButterflyfishChaetodon
- SpeciesThree-striped butterflyfishChaetodon tricinctus Waite, 1901
Care
Chaetodon tricinctus requires 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 sessile invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and high-quality marine flakes or pellets is essential for their health. Due to their specialized dietary needs, they are recommended for experienced aquarists.
Reproduction
Like many butterflyfish, the Threeband Butterflyfish is an oviparous species, with pairs forming during the breeding season. They engage in a courtship dance before spawning, releasing eggs into the water column that are left to develop without parental care.
Habitat
The natural habitat of Chaetodon tricinctus includes shallow lagoons and coral-rich areas of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Marshall Islands and parts of Micronesia. They are typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, often in pairs or small groups.