Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) Care Guide
Chaetodon xanthurus is a Western Pacific butterflyfish with a pearly cross-hatched body and a yellow tail, found around staghorn corals.
Overview
Chaetodon xanthurus is a marine butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae described by Bleeker in 1857. It has a pearly-white body with black-edged scales forming a distinctive cross-hatched pattern, an orangey-yellow rear and tail, and a black white-rimmed crown spot. It is the only family member showing this crosshatch pattern on the sides.
Taxonomy
- Family: Chaetodontidae
- Genus: Chaetodon
- Scientific name: Chaetodon xanthurus Bleeker, 1857
Habitat
The species occurs in the Western Pacific from Indonesia and the Philippines north to the Ryukyu Islands. Adults inhabit clear coastal to outer reef slopes and drop-offs around staghorn corals, usually at depths below 6 metres and down to around 50 metres.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 °dKH
- Adult size: 14-15 cm (14 cm SL)
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
Chaetodon xanthurus is omnivorous, feeding in the wild on algae, soft coral polyps and small benthic invertebrates. Because it grazes coral polyps it is not considered fully reef-safe.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful and mid-water swimming, occurring alone, in pairs or in small groups, though it can show territoriality toward similar-looking species. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses and other large peaceful fish; aggressive triggerfish and reef tanks with LPS and soft corals should be avoided.
Breeding
Chaetodon xanthurus is oviparous and exhibits distinct pairing during breeding. Captive breeding is not commonly achieved.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009).