Auriga Butterflyfish (Chaetodon Auriga)

Species Name : Chaetodon Auriga

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful 

Color : Black, White, Yellow 

Diet : Omnivore 

Reef Compatible : No

Water Conditions : 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.2-8.4, sg 1.021-1.023

Max. Size : 9»

Origin : Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and eastern Africa (south to Mossel Bay, South Africa) 

Family : Chaetodontidae

Minimum Tank Size : 125 gallons

The Auriga Butterflyfish (Chaetodon Auriga), also known as the Threadfin Butterflyfish, is one of the more popular and readily available butterflyfish. They are hardier than other butterfly species and can be recommended to both expert and beginner Aquarist.

Chaetodon Auriga is up to 23 centimetres (9 in) long. Their bodies are thin and disk-shaped, similar to those of an angelfish, their genetic cousins. Generally, their scales are a mix of vibrant colors and darker bands in various patterns. The base colour of this fish is white and the sides of the body feature a pattern of dark chevron (zigzag) markings. The rear edge of the dorsal fin has a prominent black spot with a trailing filament behind it, and a black vertical band runs through the eye. The fish also has a belly patch of descending oblique dark lines and bright yellow fins. At night, their bright colors fade to blend in with dark areas of the reef and help them avoid being seen.

The Auriga Butterflyfish is very shy and should be provided with multiple hiding places. A large tank is needed so they can have their own territory. The aquarium needs to be at least 125 gallons and with plenty of live rock for hiding places . 

Auriga Butterflyfish can be housed with members of its own species; however they may not get along with other males. They are best kept with other peaceful or mildly aggressive fish. They are also not reef safe since they will nip at and eat soft corals and stony polyps as well as ornamental shrimp, tube worms and anemones.

They are Omnivores which technically means they are a fish that will eat a variety of food of both plant and animal origin. Their Main diet should consist of meaty foods like Brine Shrimp, fish, crustaceans, mysis shrimp and a selection of frozen meaty foods along with their usual Marine pellet or flake foods. Feed often and small portions to ensure they receive their share of the food along with all the other fish in the tank. 

Size: 

Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/4»

Medium: 2-1/2" to 3-1/2»

Large: 3-1/2" to 5