Copperband Butterflyfish
Species: Chelmon rostratus
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Family: Chaetodontidae
Overview:
The Copperband Butterflyfish, also known as the Beaked Butterflyfish or Orange Stripe Butterfly, is easily recognized by its elongated snout and bold yellow-orange vertical stripes. Its distinctive false eyespot on the rear dorsal fin helps confuse predators in the wild. This species is a striking addition to peaceful marine systems and is sometimes introduced to control nuisance Aiptasia anemones.
Due to its shy nature and specialized feeding habits, the Copperband is considered a difficult fish to keep and is best reserved for experienced aquarists. It is a slow and deliberate feeder that often requires a variety of frozen and live foods to begin eating in captivity. Best housed in large aquariums of 125 gallons or more, this fish should be kept singly and not with other butterflyfish or aggressive tank mates. While considered “reef safe with caution,” it may nip at anemones, feather dusters, and other sessile invertebrates.
Care Details:
- Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
- Care Level: Difficult
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Reef Compatible: With Caution
- Diet: Carnivore (frozen mysis, brine shrimp, blackworms, live foods)
- Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72 – 78°F
- pH: 8.1 – 8.4
- Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025
- dKH: 8 – 12
Available Sizes:
- Small (S): 2 – 3"
- Medium (M): 3 – 4"
- Large (L): 4 – 5"
- Extra Large (XL): 5 – 6"
Important Livestock Notices:
- This fish has not been quarantined.
- We recommend that all new fish are quarantined prior to introduction into your display system.
- Photos are for reference only — the fish you receive will not be the exact specimen pictured. Appearance may vary based on sex, maturity, region, and individual variation.
- All livestock must be drip-acclimated slowly to ensure a safe transition to your aquarium.
We totally understand that plans change! You can modify or cancel your order as long as it hasn’t been shipped yet. Just call or email us right away - our team will confirm if we can catch it before it leaves our facility.
If your order is already in transit, you’ll need to request a return once it arrives. Keep in mind that some items, like aquariums and livestock, can’t be returned.
For full terms, please refer to our Refund & Return Policy.
Placing an order is simple - just add your item to the cart & complete the checkout process online. Once your order is confirmed, we'll reach out to you directly to schedule a local pick-up appointment at our facility.
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Order processing typically takes 1-2 business days for products that are in stock or readily available through our network of distributors. Some products, however, are fulfilled on demand directly from our distributors, which can slightly extend processing and delivery times depending on availability and location.
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If you’d like to confirm availability or request an ETA before placing your order, you’re always welcome to call or email us.