The Sunburst Butterflyfish (Chaetodon kleinii), also known as Klein’s Butterflyfish or the Brown Butterflyfish, is a popular marine species among aquarists due to its hardiness and adaptability. Its distinctive coloration and relatively peaceful demeanor make it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced hobbyists.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: Yes
• Small invert safe: Yes
• Coral safe: ⚠️ No will consume many corals especially soft corals
• Minimum tank size: 473 liters (125 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 15 cm (5.9 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on soft coral polyps, algae, and zooplankton.
• 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 Sunburst Butterflyfish exhibits a yellowish-brown body adorned with one or two broad lighter vertical bars. A distinctive black bar runs vertically across the eye, and the snout is black. Color variations exist across its range, with western specimens typically displaying one beige bar and eastern ones two white bars. Numerous dotted horizontal stripes may also be present on the sides.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, this species inhabits depths ranging from 4 to 61 meters, favoring deeper lagoons, channels, and seaward reefs. They are commonly observed swimming singly or in pairs, especially during breeding periods. Sunburst Butterflyfish are oviparous and exhibit omnivorous feeding habits, primarily consuming soft coral polyps, algae, and zooplankton.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Sunburst Butterflyfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (473 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample 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 abundant 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
Sunburst Butterflyfish are omnivorous, with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Marine algae and spirulina
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality angelfish preparations
• 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
Sunburst 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, Sunburst Butterflyfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.