Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunula)
Chaetodon lunula
Origin: Indo-Pacific, Hawaii
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 20 cm
- Min Tank
- 200 L
- Lifespan
- 5-8
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- peaceful with fish; not reef-safe — eats tubeworms, fanworms, ornamental invertebrates; best in FOWLR
About
The Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunula) is named for its distinctive black eye-mask marking with a sweeping white band resembling a raccoon's facial markings, set against a warm yellow-orange body. Considered one of the hardiest and most beginner-friendly butterflies available, it readily accepts frozen and prepared foods. Its boldness and adaptability make it an excellent introductory butterflyfish. Not reef-safe — will consume tubeworms and ornamental invertebrates.
Care Guide
Minimum 200 L FOWLR with plenty of swimming space. pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 22–27°C. Feed varied diet: frozen mysis, krill, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and quality flake. One of the most food-accepting butterflies. Not reef-safe; will eat tubeworms, fanworms, and ornamental shrimp. Compatible with peaceful similarly-sized fish.
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