Click Here to See Images

Basics

Scientific Name: Chaetodon auriga

Family: Chaetodontidae

Origin: Indo Pacific; Sri Lanka, Africa, Fiji, Indonesia, Hawaii, New Caledonia, Australia, Red Sea

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Lifespan: 5 years or longer
• Reef Compatible: No
• Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.2-8.4, sg 1.021-1.023
• Maximum Size: 8-9"
• Diet: Omnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

Overview

The Threadfin Butterflyfish is also commonly called the Auriga Butterflyfish in direct reference to it's species name. It is a popular species due to it's easy, beginner care and hardy nature. Coloration and markings can vary depending on where they are from, but their general look is a white body with numerous chevron-like black stripes and bright yellow on their rear half. Most of them have a black spot on their dorsal fin to confuse predators, but specimens from the Red Sea will not. Bearing similarities to the Vagabond Butterflyfish and a few other species within their genus, they have been known to "accidentally" crossbreed in the wild, so occasionally hybrids are found.

Though it is safe for a live rock only tank and should have hiding places within the rocks, it shouldn't be kept in a reef tank as it eats coral and other invertebrates in the wild. It is a great community fish but should only be kept in pairs with it's own species or be the only butterflyfish in the aquarium. It will accept frozen, live, flake or pellet foods and should have a varied diet.