Care
The Pearlscale Butterflyfishis known from clear coastal/outer reef slopes and drop-offs at depths between6-50m (20-164ft). These fish are often observed in pairs, feeding on smallbenthic invertebrates and algae, around areas colonised with staghorn corals. Thisis a moderately hardy species which usually acclimatises well to aquarium lifeif kept in peaceful surroundings. However, it is not regarded as completely reefsafe on account of its fondness for feeding on many soft corals and other smallinvertebrates. Some aquarists have successfully maintained the PearlscaleButterflyfish in reef aquaria; keeping the fish very well fed, and housingalongside only some of the more noxious soft corals that aren"™t so palatableare seen as key - but caution and careful observation is still advised. Thisfish does best in mature aquaria containing plenty of live rock for the fish tobrowse on and forage amongst. As with all butterflyfishes, this species demandsexcellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, with areasof decent current. Tankmates should be of a peaceable nature, as these fish arerelatively shy and shouldn't be kept with more belligerent fish or they mayrefuse to venture out and feed. More than one specimen may be housed together providingthat the aquarium is very spacious and all are introduced simultaneously asjuveniles. Do not mix with other butterflyfish species "“ particularly closerelatives, as this species will show aggression towards them.
Chaetodon xanthurus is replaced by theRedback Butterflyfish (
C. paucifasciatus)in the Red Sea, and by Merten"™s Butterflyfish (
C. mertensii) in the South Pacific. These 3 species arecollectively known as the "˜xanthurus complex"™. In the wild,
C. xanthurus and
C. mertensii are known to hybridise where their ranges overlap. ThePearlscale Butterflyfish is the only member of the family with a darkcrosshatch pattern on the flanks.
Feeding
Omnivorous. Offer a varieddiet including Mysis, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Angel & Butterfly mix,and finely chopped krill, prawns, clam, mussel etc., plus some greenfoods. Feedsmall amounts several times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bredin captivity. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs and scatter theireggs in open water.
