Asian Butterflyfish (Chaetodon argentatus)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small, compressed butterflyfish with silvery-white coloration and distinctive black vertical bands running across the body. The dorsal and anal fins have yellow-orange edging, and the face bears characteristic black markings. Adults reach approximately 5 inches and display the classic discoid body shape typical of the Chaetodontidae family.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, the Asian Butterflyfish should be fed a varied diet of high-quality frozen foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish flesh, supplemented with finely chopped marine vegetables. Feeding small amounts multiple times daily mimics natural grazing behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Asian Butterflyfish
Moderate difficulty. This species requires stable water parameters and a varied diet, and can be somewhat territorial. It is hardier than some butterflyfishes but less beginner-friendly than typical hardy reef fish.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial septicemia, Hole in the head disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from Indonesia to Australia and the Philippines. Found on coral reefs in tropical waters of Southeast Asia.
Log Asian Butterflyfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Asian Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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