Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)
The Pearlscale Butterflyfish is a beautifully patterned and graceful species, easily recognized by its silvery body covered in iridescent “pearl-like” spots, a bold black eye stripe, and bright yellow accents on the fins and tail. Known for its elegant swimming and peaceful demeanor, it adds a striking visual element to larger reef aquariums.
Size: Typically grows up to 7 inches in length
Country of Origin: Western Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and northern Australia
Latin Name: Chaetodon xanthurus
Care Level: Moderate – thrives in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters, plenty of live rock for grazing, and ample swimming space
Pearlscale Butterflyfish are omnivores that feed on small invertebrates, coral polyps, and algae in the wild. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet of high-quality frozen or prepared foods, mysis shrimp, and marine algae. They are semi-reef safe, as some individuals may nip at soft corals or clam mantles.