Fasciatus Butterfly
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Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus)
Overview
The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus), also known as the Diagonal Butterflyfish or Raccoon Butterflyfish, is a striking and highly recognizable species native to the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. It is closely related to the more widespread Chaetodon lunula (the Pacific Raccoon Butterflyfish) but distinguished by its bolder yellow coloration and prominent black facial mask.
Often seen in pairs or small groups along coral-rich reef slopes, this species is admired for its vivid beauty, peaceful nature, and engaging behaviour. While primarily a coral feeder in the wild, the Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish adapts relatively well to aquarium life when housed in a large, mature system with abundant live rock and a varied diet.
Description
The Chaetodon fasciatus features a deep, laterally compressed body with a brilliant yellow base colour crossed by bold, narrow, vertical black bands. A wide black mask covers the eyes and forehead, bordered by a white band that gives it the “raccoon” appearance. The dorsal and caudal fins are bright yellow, while the posterior edge of the body displays subtle orange highlights.
This species grows to a maximum length of 20–23 cm (8–9 inches) and moves gracefully through midwater zones, often in synchronized pairs. Its stunning contrast of colours and distinctive facial markings make it a true showpiece in any large marine display.
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 450 litres (120 US gallons)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: < 20 ppm
Aquascape and Environment:
Provide a spacious aquarium with ample live rock for grazing and exploration. Include a mix of open swimming areas and caves or ledges for retreat. The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish appreciates moderate to strong water flow and high oxygenation.
This species requires a mature, stable environment with established biological filtration and plentiful microfauna. It thrives in clean, stable systems with frequent, high-quality feeding and minimal aggression from tankmates.
Diet and Feeding
In the wild, Chaetodon fasciatus feeds primarily on coral polyps, small benthic invertebrates, and algae. In captivity, it can adapt to prepared foods, though acclimation may take time and patience.
Recommended Foods:
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Frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood (clam, shrimp, squid)
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Sponge-based frozen foods designed for butterflyfish and angelfish
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High-quality marine omnivore pellets and flakes
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Live blackworms or small clams to stimulate feeding during acclimation
Feed 2–3 times daily in small, varied portions. Frequent feeding encourages active foraging and helps reduce the likelihood of coral-nipping behaviour.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish is peaceful and generally well-behaved, though it may become mildly territorial toward similar-looking species. It can be kept singly, in bonded pairs, or in small groups in very large aquariums.
Suitable Tankmates:
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Peaceful reef-associated fish such as tangs, wrasses, anthias, gobies, and angelfish
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Other butterflyfish in spacious systems (600+ litres)
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Peaceful invertebrates like shrimp and snails
Avoid:
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Aggressive or fast-feeding species (e.g., triggers, large wrasses, or groupers)
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Other raccoon-type butterflyfish unless the aquarium is exceptionally large
Reef Compatibility
⚠️ Not Reef Safe
The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish is known to feed on coral polyps, tube worms, and other sessile invertebrates. While some individuals may be less destructive than others, it is best regarded as unsuitable for reef aquariums. It thrives best in FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) setups, where it can exhibit its natural grazing behaviour without risk to corals.
Additional Information
Maximum Size: 20–23 cm (8–9 inches)
Lifespan: 8–12 years in captivity (with excellent care)
Difficulty Level: Moderate (requires stable conditions and proper diet)
Natural Behaviour: Active swimmer, diurnal grazer; often seen in pairs or groups
Origin: Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean – from the Gulf of Aden to East Africa
Colouration: Brilliant yellow body with narrow vertical black stripes; bold black facial mask bordered by white; bright yellow fins with orange highlights
Summary
The Red Sea Raccoon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus) is a spectacular and iconic species, instantly recognisable for its bold black mask and radiant yellow body. While not reef safe due to its coral-feeding habits, it thrives in spacious, well-maintained FOWLR aquariums with live rock, stable conditions, and a diverse diet. Peaceful, hardy, and visually captivating, this butterflyfish is an outstanding centerpiece for advanced marine aquarists seeking a vibrant and dynamic addition from the Red Sea’s coral reefs.
| SKU | Fasciatus Butterfly |
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