The Wrought-Iron Butterflyfish (Chaetodon daedalma) is a distinctive marine species renowned for its unique metallic appearance and limited distribution. Endemic to the waters surrounding Japan, it is a coveted specimen among marine aquarists due to its rarity and striking coloration.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: Yes but can be aggressive towards tank mates
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Minimum tank size: 380 liters (100 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on algae and benthic invertebrates such as fanworms, hydroids, gastropods, barnacles, and tunicates.
• 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 Wrought-Iron Butterflyfish is distinguished by its striking metallic black coloration, adorned with yellow margins on the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. The body features a lattice-like pattern formed by pale yellow-centered scales with broad black margins, giving it a wrought-iron appearance. This unique coloration sets it apart from other butterflyfish, which are typically more colorful. The species attains a maximum total length of approximately 15 cm (6 inches).
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Endemic to Japan, the Wrought-Iron Butterflyfish inhabits clear, outer waters at depths exceeding 10 meters. They are sociable fish, often forming schools of more than 10 individuals, and are known to be nomadic, ranging over wide areas. These fish prefer rocky reefs where they graze on algae and benthic invertebrates. Interestingly, they sometimes congregate in large numbers, creating tight formations referred to as “wrought-iron balls,” believed to be a defensive strategy.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Wrought-Iron Butterflyfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 100-gallon (380 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 rocky 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
Wrought-Iron 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
Wrought-Iron 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, Wrought-Iron Butterflyfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.