Copperbanded Butterfly Fish

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The Copperband Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chelmon rostratus, is a striking and popular marine fish species sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for its distinctive appearance and graceful swimming. Here's a description of the Copperbanded Butterflyfish:

Size: Copperbanded Butterflyfish are relatively small, with adults typically reaching a length of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). They have a slender, elongated body.

Coloration: These butterflyfish are known for their striking and intricate coloration. They have a white to cream-colored body adorned with a series of bold, diagonal copper or orange bands that extend from the head to the caudal (tail) fin. The dorsal fin and anal fin are usually yellow, and they have a distinctive black eye stripe running through their eye.

Mouth Structure: Copperbanded Butterflyfish have a long, tubular mouth adapted for feeding on small, hard-shelled invertebrates, such as coral polyps, anemones, and small crustaceans. Their specialized mouth allows them to reach into crevices and feed on prey that is often inaccessible to other fish.

Behavior: These butterflyfish are known for their graceful and deliberate swimming patterns. They often explore coral reefs slowly, searching for their preferred prey among the coral branches and rocky crevices. They are generally peaceful fish and can be kept in a community aquarium, but they can be territorial and may chase away other butterflyfish or similar-shaped species.

Habitat: Copperbanded Butterflyfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other tropical areas. They are typically associated with coral reefs and rocky outcrops, where they feed on small invertebrates found among the corals.

Diet: In the wild, these butterflyfish primarily feed on a diet of small invertebrates, including coral polyps, anemones, and small crustaceans. In captivity, they can be challenging to feed, as they have specific dietary preferences. Offering a variety of live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, and enriched Artemia, can help meet their nutritional needs.

Aquarium Care: Copperbanded Butterflyfish can be kept in a well-maintained marine aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and live rock to mimic their natural habitat. It's essential to provide them with a stable and clean environment, as they can be sensitive to fluctuations in water quality. They may also benefit from the presence of live corals and invertebrates in the tank.

Compatibility: While they are generally peaceful, Copperbanded Butterflyfish can sometimes be aggressive towards other butterflyfish or similar-shaped species. It's important to monitor their behavior and tankmates carefully. They may also be sensitive to the presence of aggressive fish, so tank compatibility should be considered when keeping them in a community aquarium.

Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.