 |
Fish Guide |  |
Family: Chaetodontidae (Butterflyfishes)
Natural Range: Eastern Indian Ocean
Depth: 70 to ? ft. Size: 5 in. Jumps: No Space: 55+ gal.
Reef Safe: Caution Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Coral polyps, bristleworms, crustaceans
Natural History: The Declivis Butterflyfish is a rare deep-water butterflyfish that is found only around the Christmas Islands area of the eastern Indian Ocean. It has been found at the base of reef walls at over 70 foot depth. There are two subspecies of this butterflyfish. One is Chaetodon declivis declivis (Marquesas Islands) and Chaetodon declivis wilderi (Line Islands).
Husbandry: The Declivis Butterflyfish is reported to be one of the hardier butterflyfish species. Because of its rarity and limited distribution it is considered a prized specimen. It adapts well to feeding on a variety of aquarium food offerings, from flake to frozen foods. It is reported to be aggressive only with similar-looking related butterflyfishes.
AKA: Marquesan Butterflyfish