Melon Butterflyfish

About this fish

The Melon Butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifasciatus) is a butterflyfish designed for the home saltwater aquarium. Known for its graceful, disc-shaped body and eye-catching patterning, it’s a popular choice for aquarists who want an active, visual centerpiece. In practice, its feeding and natural picking behavior are the main considerations when planning a tank, since many butterflyfish may nip at corals and small invertebrates. As a result, it’s often best suited to a fish-forward setup where live rock provides structure and grazing surfaces, and tankmates are chosen to match its temperament.

Features:

• Graceful, disc-shaped swimmer with striking patterning that looks especially good with ample open swimming space
• Many butterflyfish may pick at corals and small invertebrates, so plan around a fish-focused aquarium with live rock rather than a reef
• Tends to do best with stable, well-established water conditions and peaceful tankmates to help it settle in
• Diet is key for success—offer a varied schedule of frozen mysis, clam, and quality prepared foods
• When it arrives, acclimate it slowly and provide a calm, secure spot so it can adjust

Specifications:

• Care level: Moderate
• Temperament: Generally peaceful with appropriate tankmates; may pick at sessile invertebrates
• Best tank type: Fish-only or fish-forward live rock setup; avoid coral and small invertebrate-heavy aquariums
• Diet: Frozen mysis, clam, and quality prepared foods
• Temperature: About 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: About 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: About 1.020–1.025 SG