Three-banded Butterflyfish
NameThree-banded Butterflyfish
Scientific NameChaetodon trifasciatus
Common NamesThree-banded Butterflyfish, Oval Butterflyfish, Melon Butterflyfish, Redfin Butterflyfish
FamilyChaetodontidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Hawaii, Australia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)6
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish (non-coral nipping), Wrasses, Damselfish (larger species), Hawkfish
Description
The Three-banded Butterflyfish is a striking marine fish characterized by its three prominent dark vertical bands across a light body. In the wild, it primarily feeds on coral polyps, making it a challenging species to keep in a reef aquarium. It requires a specialized diet and pristine water conditions to thrive in captivity.
