Saddleback Butterflyfish

Saddleback Butterflyfish (Chaetodon ephippium)

The Saddleback Butterflyfish, also known as the Saddled Butterflyfish or Saddle Butterflyfish, features a prominent black “saddle” with a white border on the rear upper corner of its body and dorsal fin. Its lower face is orange, and this color also outlines its black tail. The fish’s base color is gray, adorned with several blue-gray stripes on the lower body.

For optimal care, the Saddleback Butterflyfish requires a 125-gallon or larger aquarium with ample swimming space and high water quality. It should not be housed with others of its species unless introduced as a male and female pair. This species is not reef safe, as it may consume most stony corals, some soft corals, and invertebrates found on live rock.

The diet of the Saddleback Butterflyfish should consist of a variety of meaty preparations.