Description
Eritrean Butterfly Fish – Chaetodon paucifasciatus
Overview:
Also known as the Red Sea Butterflyfish, the Eritrean Butterfly is a stunning species with a silvery-white body, vertical black barring, and bright red-orange edging along its dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. Its unique coloration makes it a prized addition for fish-only aquariums.
Origin:
Found in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, commonly seen in coral-rich reefs and lagoons.
Feeding:
Omnivorous — feed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, algae-based preparations, and high-quality marine pellets. In the wild, it grazes on coral polyps, so caution is needed in reef systems.
Tank Mates:
Best with peaceful to moderately active community fish. Avoid housing with overly aggressive species.
Aggression:
Generally peaceful, though it may display mild territorial behavior toward other butterflyfish.
Experience Level:
Best kept by intermediate to advanced aquarists, due to its specialized diet and sensitivity to water changes.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.020–1.025
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Minimum Tank Size: 100+ gallons
The Eritrean Butterfly Fish is a rare and visually striking species, perfect for dedicated marine aquarists seeking a vibrant showcase fish for their display aquarium.
