The Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus), also known as the Forceps Fish, is a distinctive marine species celebrated for its elongated snout and vibrant coloration. Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, this species is a popular choice among marine aquarists due to its unique appearance and relatively hardy nature.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ Will nip urchins and starfish
• Coral safe: ⚠️ Will nip SPS corals
• Minimum tank size: 473 liters (125 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 22 cm (8.7 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on a variety of animal prey including hydroids, fish eggs, small crustaceans, and prefers tube feet of echinoderms, pedicellaria of sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles.
• Be aware of: May nip at corals and small invertebrates; requires a well-established tank with ample live rock for grazing and hiding; can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species.
Appearance and Coloration
The Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish is distinguished by its striking appearance:
• Body: Bright yellow coloration extending from the head to the tail.
• Head: The upper half of the head is black, while the lower half, including the elongated snout, is silvery white.
• Markings: A black spot is present on the anal fin just below the caudal peduncle.
This unique coloration and elongated snout make it easily recognizable among marine species.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are commonly found in exposed seaward reefs and lagoon reefs. They can be observed either solitary or in small groups of up to five individuals. Adults often form monogamous pairs, especially during the breeding season. Their diet in natural habitats includes a wide variety of animal prey, with a preference for tube feet of echinoderms, pedicellaria of sea urchins, and polychaete tentacles.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (473 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide sufficient space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate ample live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium with abundant live rock will support their natural grazing behavior and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish are omnivorous, with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality angelfish preparations
• Small crustaceans
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times daily to meet their nutritional needs.
Providing ample live rock will allow natural grazing behavior, which is beneficial for their health and well-being. Initially, they may be shy and reluctant to eat; offering live or frozen foods can encourage feeding until they become accustomed to prepared foods.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards conspecifics and similar species:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful towards other species but may become aggressive towards similar-looking fish.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, and wrasses. Caution is advised when housing with other butterflyfish or species with similar coloration.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate aggressive behaviors. Due to their territorial nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: While often considered reef-safe, individual specimens may nip at corals and clam mantles. Monitoring their behavior is essential, especially in reef setups.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.