Spotted Butterflyfish (Chaetodon spotted)
Fish in the family Chaetodontidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
A striking butterflyfish with a white or cream body densely covered with small black or dark brown spots throughout. The head and fins display similar spotted patterning, and a dark bar runs through the eye. Adults reach approximately 6 inches and have the characteristic deep, compressed body shape typical of Chaetodon butterflyfish.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, feed a varied diet of high-quality frozen foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, supplemented with small amounts of marine flakes and nori. Offer food 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Difficulty and care for the Spotted Butterflyfish
Moderate care requirement. The Spotted Butterflyfish adapts reasonably well to captivity but can be finicky feeders and may show signs of stress during acclimation. Requires stable water conditions and a well-established tank with diverse feeding opportunities.
Common health issues
Marine ich, fin rot, parasitic infections, poor feeding response in captivity
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, Philippines, and extending from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. Found on coral and rocky reefs at depths of 10–80 meters.
Log Spotted 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 Spotted Butterflyfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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