Redback butterflyfish (Chaetodon paucifasciatus) care guide

Group
Marine fish
Other names
Eritrean butterflyfish, Crown butterflyfish
Family
Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes)
Origin
Mainly Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with some reports from East Africa; over coral and rubble at 1–30 m.
Water
saltwater
Maximum size
14 cm
Temperature
24–27°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
Salinity SG 1.023–1.026
Minimum tank
250 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful
Reef safe
no

Care

Adapts well to aquarium life, which makes it popular. 250 litres is an estimate from its size; provide live rock and open swimming space. Water figures given here are general marine aquarium guidance, not species-specific: 24–27 °C, pH 8.1–8.4 and a specific gravity of 1.023–1.026. Keep nitrate low and water quality stable. Usually seen in pairs or small groups. White with black chevrons on the sides and a bright red patch towards the rear. Sources: Wikipedia, List of marine aquarium fish species (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Listofmarineaquariumfishspecies); Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaetodonpaucifasciatus). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Eats coral polyps, sea fans, algae, bristleworms and small crustaceans. In captivity offer mysis, chopped shellfish, worms and algae-based foods several times a day.

Breeding

An egg-layer that forms monogamous pairs. Not bred in home aquaria.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful; keep singly or as a pair with other peaceful fish. Not reef safe: it eats coral polyps and gorgonians.

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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