Common name: Goldheaded butterflyfish

General information

The Yellowhead Butterflyfish, also known as the Bluecheek Butterflyfish, is a striking species known for its vibrant yellow and blue facial markings. This species is scientifically named Chaetodon xanthocephalus and is a member of the family Chaetodontidae. It is appreciated for its beauty and is a sought-after addition to many saltwater aquariums.

Care

Caring for the Yellowhead Butterflyfish requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not the easiest species to keep due to their specialized dietary needs, often requiring a varied diet of coral polyps, benthic invertebrates, and marine algae. It's crucial to ensure that they are provided with a diet that mimics their natural feeding habits to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Yellowhead 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 with the currents until hatching. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely successful due to their complex life cycle.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish and anemones, the Yellowhead Butterflyfish does play a role in the reef ecosystem by controlling the growth of certain coral species and benthic invertebrates, thus contributing to the balance of the coral reef community.

Habitat

The Yellowhead Butterflyfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically seen in coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, often in pairs or small groups. They prefer clear waters and can be found at depths ranging from shallow lagoons to deeper outer reefs.