Teardrop Butterfly (Chaetodon unimaculatus)

Teardrop Butterfly (Chaetodon unimaculatus)

Discover the Graceful Teardrop Butterflyfish

The Teardrop Butterflyfish is a graceful and captivating species known for its unique teardrop-shaped marking and stunning coloration. This elegant fish is a favorite among aquarists looking to add a striking and active presence to their saltwater aquarium. While best suited for fish-only setups, its peaceful nature and beauty make the Teardrop Butterflyfish a popular choice for those who appreciate the delicate aesthetics of marine species.

Appearance: The Teardrop Butterflyfish is named for the distinct teardrop-shaped black marking on its side, which contrasts beautifully with its vibrant yellow body. The fish’s dorsal side is covered in bold yellow, while its ventral side transitions to a white or pale yellow. The Teardrop Butterflyfish also features black vertical stripes running through its eye, giving it a masked appearance. Its bold pattern and bright colors make this fish a stunning focal point in any aquarium.

Behavior: The Teardrop Butterflyfish is a relatively peaceful species that enjoys swimming through open water and exploring rocky crevices and coral formations. They are active swimmers, often seen gracefully gliding through the aquarium. While they are generally non-aggressive, they may show territorial behavior towards other butterflyfish, so it’s essential to provide ample space. They can be shy when first introduced but usually become more confident once they acclimate to their surroundings.

Diet: Teardrop Butterflyfish are omnivores and have specialized feeding habits. In the wild, they feed on coral polyps, small invertebrates, and algae. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes high-quality marine-based flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It’s also important to provide them with algae-based foods to maintain their health. Feeding multiple times a day with a variety of foods ensures they stay healthy and retain their vibrant coloration.

Tank Requirements: The Teardrop Butterflyfish requires a minimum tank size of 75 gallons to accommodate its active swimming and need for space. Plenty of live rock and hiding spots should be provided to mimic its natural habitat and make it feel secure. This species thrives in well-maintained tanks with stable water conditions. Providing an open area for swimming, along with crevices and caves for retreat, is essential to keep them stress-free and happy.

Tankmates: Teardrop Butterflyfish are generally peaceful and can be housed with other non-aggressive fish. Suitable tankmates include tangs, wrasses, gobies, and other peaceful fish species. However, caution should be taken when housing them with other butterflyfish, as they may become territorial. They are not suited for tanks with aggressive or overly dominant species, which may stress them.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Teardrop Butterflyfish are not considered reef-safe due to their natural tendency to feed on coral polyps and invertebrates. They may nip at soft and stony corals, making them unsuitable for most reef setups. They are best kept in fish-only or fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) aquariums, where their beauty can be fully appreciated without the risk of damaging delicate coral species.

Max Size: The Teardrop Butterflyfish can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length, making them a medium-sized fish that requires ample space to thrive.

Origin: The Teardrop Butterflyfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around the Hawaiian Islands, French Polynesia, and parts of Southeast Asia. They are commonly found in coral-rich lagoons and reefs, where they feed on coral polyps and small invertebrates.

Interesting Facts:

• The Teardrop Butterflyfish is named for the distinct black teardrop-shaped marking on its side, which makes it easily recognizable.

• In the wild, they are often found in pairs or small groups, gracefully swimming around coral reefs.

• Although they are not reef-safe, their unique appearance and active nature make them highly sought after for fish-only tanks.

Disclaimer: Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.