Butterflyfish - Lemon

Basic Info

By maturity, most Lemon Butterfly Fish reach between 5 and 6.5 inches (12.5 to 16.5 centimeters) in length. They are a lemon yellow in color, and are covered in tiny black speckles, similar to a sprinkling of seeds. These are vertically oriented. A black spot in the tail area and a black or dark colored mask through the eye compliment the coloration of this fish.

Health

A single Lemon Butterfly should be kept in an aquarium of at least 60 gallons. Often temperatures are kept between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit (23 to 26 degrees Celsius), with pH values between 8.3 and 8.4. In an aquarium containing invertebrates, the specific gravity should remain between 1.023 and 1.025, though single Lemon Butterflies may be best kept at a lower specific gravity, usually between 1.020 and 1.023. Most Lemon Butterflies get on well with other fish. Lemon Butterflies should be fed a variety of items. As juveniles, plankton and algae are often an important part of a Lemon Butterfly's diet.

Habitat

Saltwater fish - They have been found as deep as 830 feet (250 meters) up to shallower waters like sloping areas of reefs.

Behavior

The Lemon Butterfly Fish is an amazing specimen that can add a showy quality to many saltwater aquariums. These are good community fish that are adored by many marine enthusiasts. Most Lemon Butterflies do get along well with other fish. However, large or overly aggressive fish may bully them. They are a good community fish, and some may attempt clean other fish. In the wild, Lemon Butterflies clean other fish, and forage for plankton or other items, like fish eggs, when they become available. These Butterflies are often noted in groups, or schools, which may be quite large. Lemon Butterflies are not generally considered reef safe and therefore not appropriate in a miniature reef environment.

Origin

Indo-Pacific

History

Lemon Butterflies are native to Hawaii through the Indo-Pacific to the Indian Ocean. Although they are fairly common, some worry that with over collection for the pet trade, populations could dwindle. Lemon Butterflies are often popular due to their hardy natures and beauty. They are the most common butterflyfish in Hawaiian reefs, and they are widely enjoyed by divers.

Common Foods

Often, chopped seeafoods are offered, along with some chopped vegetables.