Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish (Chaetodon decussatus)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish has a white to cream-colored body with distinctive black vertical bars and a network of black lines creating a decussate (crossing) pattern. The head is mostly white with a dark eye-bar, and the dorsal and anal fins show yellow or orange tinges. Maximum length is around 5.5 inches.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, offer a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, small frozen foods (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp), and prepared foods designed for butterflyfish. Many individuals benefit from supplemental feeding with zoanthids or soft corals, though some may nip at polyps.
Difficulty and care for the Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish
Moderately challenging for most hobbyists. Butterflyfish are prone to ich, require stable conditions, and can be finicky feeders. This species is somewhat hardier than many Chaetodon, but not for complete beginners.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Hole in the Head, Columnaris
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa through the Indian Ocean to Indonesia and the western Pacific, including the coasts of India and the Arabian Peninsula.
Log Indian Vagabond 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 Vagabond Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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