TankHaven
Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

Copperband Butterflyfish

Chelmon rostratus

saltwaterhard to keepfishpeacefulswims midreef-safe with caution

Bought to eat Aiptasia anemones, which it often does. Can be hard to get eating, so ask the shop to show you it feeding.

In a reef: may pick at LPS and feather dusters.

Adult size
7 in
Smallest tank
100 gal
Keep them in groups of
1+
Temperature
74–82 °F
pH
8–8.4
Food
Carnivore: frozen mysis, clams on the half shell; often slow to start eating
Start a saltwater build to add this

Gets along with

Cerith SnailBlue-leg Hermit CrabNassarius SnailAstrea SnailYellow Clown GobyScarlet Reef Hermit CrabTrochus SnailNeon Goby

Think twice about

Blue Devil Damselfish — too aggressive for itDwarf Fuzzy Lionfish — too aggressive for itMaroon Clownfish — too aggressive for itPicasso Triggerfish — too aggressive for it

Easy corals it leaves alone

Kenya Tree CoralToadstool LeatherDevil’s Hand LeatherColt CoralGreen Star PolypsBirdsnest Coral

Care ranges are typical hobby guidance and vary by source and by where the animal came from. Ask your supplier and watch your own tank. Spot a mistake on this page? Let me know.