Burgess Butterfly - Chaetodon burgessi
The Burgess Butterfly, scientifically known as Chaetodon burgessi, features striking black and white stripes. Known for their resilience and calm nature, they coexist well with other peaceful species. However, they may show aggression towards similarly patterned butterflies in smaller aquariums.
These fish are not suitable for reef tanks as they tend to nibble on soft corals, stony polyps, ornamental shrimp, tube worms, and anemones. Their diet should include a mix of mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, spirulina, nori, seaweed, marine algae, and algae-based foods, fed 2-3 times daily.
Originating from the deep reefs of the Western Pacific, the Burgess Butterfly is a stunning addition to any marine aquarium. With a predominantly black and white body, they have three distinctive black bands. The first band forms a mask over the eyes, while the last covers much of the back, creating a unique appearance. These hardy fish thrive in aquariums with plenty of hiding spots.
An ideal tank for the Burgess Butterfly should be at least 70 gallons, featuring ample live rock for shelter and additional food sources. They are not recommended for reef aquariums due to their tendency to pick at feather dusters, anemones, and LPS corals.
In their natural habitat, the Burgess Butterfly feeds on coral polyps, crustaceans, and algae. In captivity, frozen and freeze-dried foods with algae are suitable alternatives, supplemented with dried algae and vitamin-enriched brine and mysis shrimp.