🐠 Eightband Butterflyfish (Chaetodon octofasciatus)
🐠 Eightband Butterflyfish (Chaetodon octofasciatus)
Coral Feeder • Reef Butterflyfish • Display Species • Indo-Pacific Icon
📋 The Eightband Butterflyfish (Chaetodon octofasciatus) is one of the most recognizable reef fish, known for its vibrant yellow coloration and eight distinct black vertical bands that give it its name. Found throughout coral-rich reefs of the Indo-Pacific, it gracefully glides through coral heads, feeding primarily on coral polyps and benthic invertebrates.
This butterflyfish thrives best in mature aquariums with live rock, moderate current, and plenty of hiding places. While not reef safe, it’s an exceptional display fish for FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) systems.
The Eightband Butterflyfish is a favorite among aquarists who appreciate intricate beauty and are ready to meet the care needs of this delicate yet stunning coral species.
💡 Highlights
✨ Distinctive appearance: eight vertical black bands on a yellow body
⚪ Peaceful nature: compatible with non-aggressive tankmates
📏 Compact size: ideal for mid-sized display tanks
✅ Active swimmer: constantly exploring rock crevices
🐠 Classic Indo-Pacific beauty: highly recognizable coral reef fish
🧾 A Quick Look at the Eightband Butterflyfish
📛 Common Name: Eightband Butterflyfish / Eight-Stripe Butterflyfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Chaetodon octofasciatus
👨👩👧 Family: Chaetodontidae
🌍 Origin: Indo-Pacific • Thailand • Malaysia • Indonesia • Great Barrier Reef
📏 Max Size: 12 cm (≈ 4.7")
💧 pH Range: 8.1 – 8.4
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 28 °C (75 – 82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Moderate to Difficult
💖 Temperament: Peaceful
🪸 Reef Safe: ❌ No – will nip and feed on coral polyps
🏠 Min Tank Size: 200 L (53 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Mid to upper water column
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes – sustainably collected
⏳ Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (coral polyps • algae • small invertebrates)
🐣 Reproduction: Egg layer; pairs form during breeding season

















