Chaetodon kleini

Common Names:

Klein's Butterfly Fish
Sunburst Butterfly Fish

Synonyms:

Family:

Chaetodontidae

Category:

Chaetodontids

Distribution:

Indo Pacific; Very widespread from east Africa, the Red Sea, through the Indian Ocean to most Pacific reefs

Main Ecosystem:

Reef; Inhabitant of mature reefs with well established large stony coral populations

Temperament:

Territorial; Likely to exhibit territorial behaviour toward conspecifics (with the excpetion of mated pairs). Its difference in appearance from many other Butterfly Fishes makes compatibility with other species less problematic. Peaceful toward other fish species outside the family.

Diet:

Carnivore; A coral polyp and small invertebrate feeder in the wild. In the aquarium adapts to a range of animal-based fare including Mysis shrimp. Unique among Butterfly Fishes of the genus in its relative ease of acclimatisation to aquarium foods. Not reef safe: will devour live corals enthusiastically! Will also graze algae to a limited extent.

Care:

Slightly less demanding than most other members of the genus, but should be provided with scrupulous attention to water cleanliness for best health and longevity. Fairly spacious quarters furnished with coral crevices and porous rock, with peaceful companions will suit this species.

pH:

Temperature:

25°C - 27°C

77°F - 81°F

Specific Gravity:

1.022 - 1.026

Potential Size:

Male: 15cm (5.9")
Female: 15cm (5.9")

Water Region:

Middle; Remains close to branched stony corals for protection and feeding

Activity:

Diurnal

Gender:

no visible differences known.

Breeding:

Unknown in the aquarium. Few details available of breeding in the wild.

Variants:

None known.

Comments:

Unusual among the members of the genus Chaetodon for being relatively hardy and willing to eat conventionally available marine aquarium foods. Consequently, a recommended "first Butterfly Fish" for the experienced aquarist contemplating tackling this genus of fishes. One of the longest established members of the genus in the hobby as a consequence and one of several species introduced to the UK hobby by Graham Cox, dating from the 1970s.

Main Colours:

Orange, White, Black

Markings:

Striped And Spotted

Mouth:

Normal

Tail:

Flat

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Image Credit:

Submitted By:

Calilasseia

Contributors:

Calilasseia

History:

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