Sunset Butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis)

Care Level Moderate

Temperament Peaceful

Color Form Black, Orange, Yellow

Diet Omnivore

Reef Compatible No

Water Conditions sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size 5"

Family Chaetodontidae

Minimum Tank Size 70 gallons

Also known as the Pelewensis Butterflyfish, the Sunset Butterflyfish hails from the reefs of the south Pacific. Sporting an oval shape, its body is adorned with stunning yellow to orange hues. The diagonal black bands and vibrant yellow outlines on its fins further enhance its beauty.

To keep the Sunset Butterflyfish happy, it is recommended to house it in large, peaceful community aquariums with plenty of live rock. It should be kept alone, without conspecifics or similar butterflyfish, and avoid any stress-inducing tankmates. As it tends to devour most invertebrates and may nip at corals, it is not suitable for reef aquariums.

Feeding the Sunset Butterflyfish can be challenging, as it is a shy and methodical eater. It may require a variety of foods to entice it to feed. Offer a mix of frozen and live foods such as mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, frozen whole cockle, and seaweed-based meals.