Threadfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga)

Threadfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga)

Discover the Graceful Threadfin Butterflyfish

The Threadfin Butterflyfish, also known as the Auriga Butterflyfish, is a stunning species known for its elegant appearance and active swimming behavior. Its striking coloration and peaceful nature make it a popular choice among marine aquarists. Perfect for fish-only or fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) setups, this butterflyfish is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add beauty and charm to their aquarium.

Appearance: The Threadfin Butterflyfish is characterized by its bright white body adorned with diagonal black lines that form a lattice-like pattern. Its dorsal fin is edged in vivid yellow, and its rear body transitions into a striking yellow tail. The black stripe running vertically through its eye and the filament-like extension trailing from its dorsal fin give this fish its "threadfin" name. Juveniles may also display a prominent black eyespot near their tail, which fades with age, adding to their unique appearance.

Behavior: Threadfin Butterflyfish are active and graceful swimmers that enjoy exploring the aquarium. They are peaceful and generally non-aggressive, making them suitable for community tanks. While they may be shy when first introduced, they quickly acclimate and become more confident. Their curious and gentle nature makes them a joy to observe.

Diet: In the wild, Threadfin Butterflyfish feed on coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. Offering marine algae and sponge-based foods is essential to meet their dietary needs. Frequent, small feedings throughout the day help mimic their natural grazing behavior and keep them healthy.

Tank Requirements: The Threadfin Butterflyfish requires a minimum tank size of 100 gallons, providing ample space for swimming and exploring. The aquarium should include plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding spots. A peaceful environment with stable water parameters is crucial for their well-being. Strong water flow and a well-maintained tank will help replicate their natural habitat.

Tankmates: Threadfin Butterflyfish are peaceful and can be housed with other non-aggressive marine species. Suitable tankmates include tangs, wrasses, gobies, and other butterflyfish of similar temperament. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or territorial fish, which may stress them. If housed with other butterflyfish, ensure the tank is large enough to minimize territorial disputes.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: The Threadfin Butterflyfish is not considered reef-safe, as it has a natural tendency to nip at corals, particularly soft and stony corals, as well as some invertebrates. They are best suited for fish-only or FOWLR aquariums, where their beauty and elegance can be fully appreciated without risking harm to delicate reef organisms.

Max Size: Threadfin Butterflyfish can grow up to 9 inches (23 cm) in length, making them one of the larger butterflyfish species. Their size and active nature require a spacious aquarium to thrive.

Origin: This species is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and parts of the Great Barrier Reef. They are commonly found in coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes, often in pairs or small groups.

Interesting Facts:

• The "threadfin" name comes from the filament-like extension on their dorsal fin, which adds to their graceful appearance.

• Juveniles have a distinctive black eyespot near their tail, thought to confuse predators, which fades as they mature.

• Their peaceful demeanor and striking coloration make them a favorite among marine hobbyists, despite their reef-incompatibility.

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.