Indian Butterflyfish (Roa jayakari)

Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Indian Butterflyfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameRoa jayakari
FamilyChaetodontidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-79°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Yellow body with distinctive black vertical stripes and a black face mask. The dorsal and anal fins are yellow with orange edges, and the tail is yellow with black banding. Butterflyfish-typical triangular body shape.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, small frozen foods (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp), and meaty preparations. Supplement with vitamin-enriched preparations and occasional vegetable matter. Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions.

Difficulty and care for the Indian Butterflyfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Western Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and waters around India and the Persian Gulf.

Log Indian 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 Indian Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.