Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon Xanthurus)

Species Name : Chaetodon Xanthurus

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : White, Orange, Black

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 : 6"

Origin : Indo-Pacific

Family : Chaetodontidae

Minimum Tank Size : 70 gallons

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon Xanthurus), also known as Yellow-Tailed Butterflyfish, Crosshatch Butterflyfish or Philippines Chevron Butterflyfish.

Pearlscale Butterflyfish has a pearly white body that appears to give off an iridescent glow under the right aquarium light conditions. The brilliant pearly white body color is enhanced by a striking reticulated pattern in contrasting black coloration. Bold punches of orange coloration grace the anterior dorsal and anal fin area up to the peduncle as well as portions of the caudal fin in sickle-shaped bars. Highlights of yellow coloration gracefully trace the tips of the dorsal fin for a truly elegant effect. Pearlscale Butterflyfish can grow to a standard length of 15 centimetres (5.9 in) with no discernible differences between males and females. 

This fish does best in mature aquaria containing plenty of live rock for the fish to browse on and forage amongst. House the Pearlscale Butterflyfish in a 70-gallon or larger aquarium with other peaceful fish and others of the same species, if all were introduced into the tank at the same time.

This is a moderately hardy species which usually acclimatises well to aquarium life if kept in peaceful surroundings. They may be compatible with other butterflyfishes that have a different color pattern, but there is no guarantee that their relationship will always be peaceful. 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. 

The diet of the Pearlscale Butterflyfish should include various meaty preparations including frozen, freeze-dried, fresh or flake food. Feed small amounts several times per day. Also provide regular vegetable food source and vitamin-boosting supplements.

Size: Small: 1-1/2"-2-1/4", Medium: 2-1/4"-3-1/2", Large: 3-1/2"-4-3/4"