Speckled Butterflyfish - Small

The Speckled Butterflyfish is named because of the dots, or "speckles", that cover its body. Its body is a light yellow colour, and it provides a striking backdrop for the dark pattern of dots on it. Another distinguishing feature is a black band that runs over the eye. The anal fin is also edged with black trim.

Detailed breeding information about this species is limited. Generally, Butterflyfish are oviparous, with females spawning into open water. They form pairs for breeding and mate monogamously. Butterflyfish are not easy fish to breed in captivity. This main difficulty being rearing the fry after hatching.

This species is native to the Indo-Pacific. Locations include East Africa, the Red Sea, Japan, and Australia. It inhabits shallow areas of reefs and lagoons, to depths of around 36 metres.

Tank Recommendations for your Speckled Butterflyfish

Speckled Butterflyfish need a tank that is at least 75 gallons (284 litres) capacity.

This species isn't reef safe. They are a threat to small invertebrates and will some corals and stone polyps. Butterflyfish will thrive in surroundings that resemble their natural environment. A suitable tank should have plenty of open space for swimming, and rock work with caves and crevices.

Plantlife can be included in the tank. Floating plants near the sides are best as rooted plants may be disturbed. Strong water movement is recommended as this will mimic natural conditions.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Speckled Butterflyfish is a peaceful species. Suitable tank buddies should have a similar peaceful temperament.

There may be some issues with similar coloured fish and fish of the same genus.

Usually Compatible

Conspecifics can cohabit but should be added at the same time. Dartfish, Gobies, Pufferfish and Fairy Wrasses will also make good companions.

Sometime Compatible

Caution is advised with Eels, Groupers, Lionfish/Scorpionfish, Squirrelfish and Triggerfish,

Rarely Compatible

It is not recommended to keep fish of a similar colour or the same genus with Speckled Butterflyfish. Aggressive predators such as Sharks and Rays should be avoided. Slow mover such as Seahorses and Pipefish are too delicate to cohabit with this species.

Feeding your Speckled Butterflyfish

Speckled Butterflyfish are omnivorous. They will eat micro and macroalgae in the tank. A suitable diet should contain spirulina, nori seaweed, and food flakes. Also, include meaty food such as brine and mysis shrimp and black worms. Feed several times per day.