Golden Butterflyfish (Chaetodon hemichrysus)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Golden Butterflyfish displays a striking yellow coloration on the head and anterior body, transitioning to white on the posterior half with distinct black diagonal banding. A characteristic black eye-spot ringed with yellow-orange appears on the dorsal fin. The body is laterally compressed and disc-shaped, typical of the butterflyfish family.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, offer a varied diet of high-quality frozen foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, supplemented with algae-based preparations and quality flake foods. Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions.
Difficulty and care for the Golden Butterflyfish
The Golden Butterflyfish is moderately challenging, requiring stable water conditions and a mature reef aquarium. While less aggressive than many butterflyfishes, they can nip at certain coral polyps and benefit from established systems with abundant live rock and natural food sources.
Common health issues
Marine ich, lateral line erosion, feeding reluctance in captivity
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from Indonesia and the Philippines westward to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. Found in coral reef environments throughout this range.
Log Golden 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 Golden Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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