Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

Also Known As: Beaked Butterflyfish

Origin: Indo-Pacific (from Eastern Indian Ocean to Western Pacific – including Indonesia, Philippines, and Australia)

Habitat: Coastal reefs, lagoons, and estuaries, often around coral heads and rocky outcrops

Diet: Carnivore – Feeds on worms, small crustaceans, and inverts like feather dusters and aiptasia; in captivity, eats frozen mysis, brine shrimp, blackworms, and may graze on live rock

Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)

Reef Safe: With caution – May nip at feather dusters, tube worms, and small inverts

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (285 liters)

Temperament: Peaceful – Can be shy, especially when newly introduced

Care Level: Difficult – Picky eater and sensitive to water conditions

Lifespan: 5–7 years in captivity with proper care

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm