Saddleback butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium) care guide

Group
Marine fish
Other names
Saddled butterflyfish
Family
Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes)
Origin
Indian and Pacific Oceans from Sri Lanka and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to Hawaii and the Tuamotus; coral reefs at 0–30 m.
Water
saltwater
Maximum size
30 cm
Temperature
24–27°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
Salinity SG 1.023–1.026
Minimum tank
500 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful
Reef safe
with_caution

Care

One of the largest butterflyfish, with an angelfish-like shape; 500 litres is an estimate from its adult size. 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. Recognised by the large black saddle edged in white on its upper rear body. Sources: Wikipedia, List of marine aquarium fish species (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Listofmarineaquariumfishspecies); Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaetodonephippium). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Eats filamentous algae, small invertebrates, coral polyps and fish eggs. In captivity offer mysis, chopped shellfish, krill and algae-based foods several times a day.

Breeding

Not described in the sources.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful with other fish. Reef safe with caution: it may pick at coral polyps and small invertebrates, so watch it closely in a reef.

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

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