The Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus) is one of the most stunning saltwater fish you can add to an aquarium. With its elegant, elongated body and bold orange and white stripes, it's a real showstopper. But before you rush to get one, there’s a catch—it’s not the easiest fish to keep. This species has strict dietary needs, is sensitive to water conditions, and can be tricky to acclimate to captivity. Let’s dive into what it takes to successfully care for a Copperband Butterflyfish.
Quick Facts
- Size: Up to 8 inches
- Lifespan: 4-7 years
- Tank Size: 75+ gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful but shy
- Diet: Carnivorous – prefers live and frozen foods
- Difficulty Level: Challenging (best for experienced aquarists)
Tank Requirements & Setup
To keep a Copperband happy, you’ll need a spacious tank with plenty of live rock to provide hiding spots and food sources. A minimum of 75 gallons is required, but larger is always better. They prefer stable, clean water conditions, with temperatures around 75-82°F and a pH of 8.1-8.4. Since they’re shy, avoid aggressive tank mates like large triggers or angelfish. Instead, pair them with peaceful species like gobies, clownfish, or tangs (as long as they aren’t too territorial).
Diet & Feeding Challenges
This is where things get tricky. Copperbands are picky eaters and often refuse commercial foods. They naturally feed on small crustaceans, worms, and even pest anemones (Aiptasia) in the wild. In captivity, they do best with:
- Live foods such as blackworms, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp
- Frozen seafood like mussels, scallops, and enriched mysis
- Occasional clams on the half-shell to encourage eating
Getting them to eat can be a challenge, and some refuse food entirely, leading to starvation. This is one of the biggest reasons they are not recommended for beginners.
Behavior & Compatibility
Copperbands are gentle, peaceful fish but tend to be shy at first. They don’t compete well with aggressive or overly energetic tank mates. If stressed or bullied, they may stop eating altogether. In the wild, they are often solitary but can sometimes form pairs in large enough tanks.
Health Risks & Common Problems
Copperbands are sensitive and prone to marine diseases like Ich and Marine Velvet, which means quarantine is highly recommended before introducing them to your main tank. They also struggle with malnutrition if they refuse food. Keeping stress levels low and water quality high is crucial for their survival.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Copperband Butterflyfish?
The Copperband Butterflyfish is a beautiful but challenging species to keep. It is best suited for experienced aquarists who are prepared to provide a well-maintained environment and a proper diet. If you are willing to invest the effort and patience, this fish can be a rewarding addition to your reef or fish-only system.
Pro Tip: If you are new to butterflyfish, consider starting with a hardier species, such as the Longnose Butterflyfish, before attempting a Copperband.