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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Chaetodontidae (Butterflyfishes)
Natural Range: Southern Indian Ocean
Depth: 3 to 49 ft. Size: 5.75 in. Jumps: No Space: 55+ gal.
Reef Safe: No Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Corals, algae
Natural History: The Rainfordi Butterflyfish is found in protected reef zones such as lagoons, reef faces, and slopes. It is observed singly, in pairs, and in small groups. It is not uncommon to observe individuals aggressively chasing members of their own species when in small groups. In groups, females generally outnumber males.
Husbandry: The Rainfordi Butterfly is reported to be difficult to acclimate unless provided with live rock flush with filamentous green algae. It is also reported to feed more readily if kept in groups with its own species or other butterfly fish species. It may nip at the fins of other members of its own species. It will nip at the polyps of stony corals but is reported to avoid the more toxic soft corals.