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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Chaetodontidae (Butterflyfishes)
Natural Range: Indian Ocean
Depth: 66 to 262 ft. Size: 5.5 in. Jumps: No Space: 55+ gal.
Reef Safe: Caution Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Caution
Diet: Bristleworms, crustaceans, gorgonian polyps
Natural History: The Mitratus Butterflyfish is found individually, in pairs, and in trios on steep dropoffs in areas with caves and rubble. It is often observed in areas with rich gorgonian growths. It has been observed upside-down in caves and recesses sharing them with other species of anthias and wrasse.
Husbandry: The Mitratus Butterfly is considered a hardy butterflyfish species for captivity. It will eat a number of chopped seafoods, including Mysis shrimp. It has been reported to be aggressive toward other butterflies, including its own species. It may pick on coral polyps in a reef system.
AKA: Indian Butterflyfish, Headband Butterflyfish