Copperband Butterflyfish

The Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) is a graceful and eye-catching saltwater fish recognized for its long, narrow snout and vertical orange-copper bands across a silver-white body. This striking butterflyfish is popular for its beauty and utility, as it may naturally feed on Aiptasia anemones and other small pests within the aquarium.

While stunning, the Copperband Butterflyfish requires more care than beginner-level fish, as it can be shy and sometimes difficult to acclimate to prepared foods. Offering a varied diet of frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and clam meat will help ensure long-term success. It does best in peaceful community aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding places.

Care Level: Moderate to Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Carnivore – eats mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, clam, blackworms; may graze on Aiptasia
Reef Safe: With caution (may nip at corals, feather dusters, or invertebrates)
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025

• dKH: 8–12

The Copperband Butterflyfish is a beautiful centerpiece fish for larger marine aquariums, perfect for experienced aquarists seeking a mix of elegance and functionality.