Redtail Butterflyfish (Chaetodon collare)

Quick facts

Appearance

Chaetodon collare is a yellow and white butterflyfish with distinctive black markings. The head is predominantly white with a black vertical band through the eye, and the body transitions to pale yellow on the flanks. A prominent red or orange-red tail (caudal fin) gives this species its common name, contrasting sharply with the pale body coloration.

Diet and feeding

In captivity, feed a varied diet of high-quality meaty foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped fish flesh, supplemented with vegetable matter such as nori or spirulina-based preparations. Feed 2-3 times daily in smaller portions.

Difficulty and care for the Redtail Butterflyfish

Chaetodon collare is moderately difficult to keep. While hardy once acclimated, it can be a selective feeder initially and requires stable water conditions. Success depends on proper acclimatization, varied diet, and adequate tank size.

Common health issues

Parasitic infections (ich, marine velvet), bacterial infections, nutritional deficiencies, feeding refusal in newly imported specimens

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and extending to the Indo-Malaysian Archipelago and Philippines. Occurs in coastal reef environments from shallow reefs to approximately 80 meters depth.