Butterflyfish – Blackback

Blackback Butterflyfish Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size:  80 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 15cm (6″)

Diet: Carnivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 7 years

Scientific Name: Chaetodon Melannotus

Coral Safe: No

Invertebrate Safe: Yes with caution (May prey upon crustaceans, anemones, worms)

Approx. Purchase Size:  2-3 inches

The blackback butterflyfish, scientific name Chaetodon Melannotus is a peaceful fish. Their minimum tank size is 80 gallons. Blackback butterflyfish can grow up to 6” and can live up 7 years. Blackback butterflyfish are carnivores. They can live alone, in pairs or in small groups if there is adequate space. Blackback butterflyfish are not coral safe and may bother some invertebrates (as they mature they may prey upon crustaceans, anemones, worms). During the day they will swim out in the open and will hide in caves to sleep at night.