Meyer's Butterflyfish
NameMeyer's Butterflyfish
Scientific NameChaetodon meyeri
Common NamesMeyer's Butterflyfish, Mayers Butterflyfish, White-barred Butterflyfish
FamilyChaetodontidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, East Africa, French Polynesia, Southern Japan, New Caledonia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)7.9
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish (non-coral nipping), Triggerfish (carefully selected), Large Damselfish, Other non-aggressive, non-coral-eating fish
Description
The Meyer's Butterflyfish is a stunning marine fish characterized by its white body with bold black vertical stripes and vibrant yellow fins. It is an obligate corallivore, meaning it feeds exclusively on live coral polyps, making it exceptionally difficult to maintain in a home aquarium. This species requires an expert aquarist and a very large, mature FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) system, as it will consume all live corals.
