Ornate Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ornatissimus)
Chaetodon ornatissimus
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 19 cm
- Min Tank
- 220 L
- Lifespan
- 4-7
- Swimming Level
- mid
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- Carnivore; coral polyps in nature; frozen mysis, clam, coral-derived preparations in captivity
- Temperament
- Peaceful with most species; may harass other Chaetodon
About
The Ornate Butterflyfish is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful butterflyfishes in existence, displaying a white body with bold orange diagonal stripes, distinctive black vertical head bars, and vivid yellow fins. Like many Chaetodon species, it is an obligate corallivore in the wild and represents one of the most significant challenges in marine fishkeeping. Only advanced hobbyists with dedicated dietary strategies, coral-derived preparations, and exceptional water quality should attempt this species.
Care Guide
Provide a large, mature aquarium with diverse feeding stimuli. Try to wean onto frozen mysis, clam, and coral-derived commercial preparations using target-feeding strategies. Not suitable for reef aquariums with living coral. Requires exceptional water quality and low stress environment. Expert-only species.
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