Reef Butterfly (Atlantic)

The lovely Reef butterfly is a shimmering white with sunny yellow across its back and fins. A dark stripe over its eyes, and another at the base of its tail, help to confuse predators who can't distinguish this fish's head from its tail. Its bright color scheme have earned it the name Painted butterfly. It grows up to 6 inches and needs an aquarium of at least 75 gallons. It is occasionally imported from the Caribbean.

This species is normally quite peaceful, and should not be kept with aggressive tank mates. If it is to be kept with other butterflyfish they should be added at the same time to a large aquarium. Butterflyfish do not show differences between males and females. They are related to angelfish, but lack the angel's distinctive cheek spines.

A butterflyfish's favorite food is an anemone, so they should not be kept in the same aquarium with one unless it is guarded by aggressive clownfish. The butterflyfish knows to attack the anemone on its mouth, which does not sting, and will make a quick meal of it. Many species of butterfly also benefit from filamentous algae in the aquarium to graze on.

This species may ignore corals if well fed, however caution should be used if attempting to keep it in a reef. It may nip on many types of corals including LPS, clam mantles, sponges, and feather dusters. They do not typically bother other types of invertebrates such as crustaceans. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. This species should be offered a variety of meaty and herbivore preparations such as frozen Mysis shrimp, half shell clams, marine algae and Spirulina; it should be fed 2-3 times a day.