The Burgess Butterfly (Chaetodon burgessi) Care Guide

The Burgess Butterfly (Chaetodon burgessi) is a captivating species highly sought after by marine aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive product description will provide essential information on caring for the Burgess Butterfly in a saltwater marine aquarium.

Habitat of the Burgess Butterfly

The Burgess Butterfly is native to the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and is primarily found in regions around Hawaii and the Johnston Atoll. They are often encountered in these tropical waters' shallow, reef-rich areas.

Reef Compatibility of the Burgess Butterfly

The Burgess Butterfly is not considered reef-safe, making it a suitable choice for FOWLR aquariums. This species does not typically exhibit a strong interest in coral polyps or other invertebrates, so if added to a reef tank, monitoring is necessary as some species may be less tolerant of a reef environment than others.

Size and Lifespan of the Burgess Butterfly

Adult Burgess Butterflies typically grow 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). In a well-maintained aquarium, they can live for an average of 5 to 8 years with proper care.

Diet in Captivity

The Burgess Butterfly primarily feeds on a diet of zooplankton, algae, and small invertebrates in the wild. Providing a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food, frozen foods, and live foods is recommended when available in captivity.

Aquacultured Availability

Burgess Butterflies were not commonly aquacultured, but there has been an increasing trend in aquaculturing marine species. It is advisable to check with reputable marine livestock suppliers for current availability.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates

The Burgess Butterfly is generally peaceful and should be housed with other non-aggressive fish species. It is important to avoid housing them with territorial or aggressive tank mates, as this can lead to stress and potential conflict.

Sexual Dimorphism of the Burgess Butterfly

Burgess Butterflies do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, and it is challenging to differentiate between males and females based on their physical appearance.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes

Juvenile Burgess Butterflies display a striking black and yellow coloration pattern, while adult specimens develop a more subdued yellow and white pattern. They undergo a transition in coloration as they mature, a fascinating feature of this species.

Temperament of the Burgess Butterfly

Burgess Butterflies are generally peaceful and make an excellent addition to a community marine aquarium. However, like most butterflyfish, they may become territorial and exhibit aggressive behavior towards their kind if kept in pairs. Householding them singly or in groups of three or more is advisable to disperse aggression.

Tank Requirements for the Burgess Butterfly

To ensure the well-being of your Burgess Butterfly, providing them with a suitable aquarium setup is crucial. Here are the specific tank requirements:

  
• Minimum Aquarium Size: A tank with a minimum capacity of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Burgess Butterfly. Larger tanks will provide more swimming space and accommodate a small group.
  
• Water Conditions:     
        
  • pH: Maintain a stable pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.
        
  • Salinity: Keep the salinity of the water in the range of 1.022 to 1.025 specific gravity.
        
  • Water Temperature: The ideal water temperature for the Burgess Butterfly is around 74-78°F (23-26°C).
        
  • Water Flow: Provide moderate water flow to mimic their natural habitat. The use of powerheads or wavemakers can help achieve this.
      
    

Common Names of the Burgess Butterfly

The Burgess Butterfly may also be known by names such as the Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Black and Yellow Butterflyfish, and Johnston's Butterflyfish.

Five Compatible Tank Mates for the Burgess Butterfly

Choosing suitable tank mates for your Burgess Butterfly is crucial to maintaining a harmonious aquarium environment. Here are five species that can coexist with Burgess Butterflies:

  
1. Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.): Clownfish are generally compatible with the Burgess Butterfly and can create a colorful and dynamic display in your aquarium.
  
2. Fire Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica): These small, peaceful fish are an excellent addition to a marine community tank.
  
3. Hawkfish (Cirrhitidae spp.): Hawkfish are known for their striking appearance and can coexist harmoniously with Burgess Butterflies.
  
4. Six-Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia): These small and active fish can add vibrancy to your aquarium while being compatible with the Burgess Butterfly.
  
5. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis): These invertebrates serve as an exciting addition to your tank and provide cleaning services to fish needing parasite removal.

Why Choose the Burgess Butterfly from Saltwaterfish.com

At Saltwaterfish.com, we take pride in offering top-quality marine livestock to aquarists. When you purchase a Burgess Butterfly from us, you can expect:

  
• Health Guarantee: We ensure all our marine life is healthy and disease-free.
  
• Expert Guidance: Our team of experts is available to provide guidance and support to help you maintain a thriving marine aquarium.
  
• Careful Shipping: We have a proven track record of shipping marine species safely to your doorstep, no matter where you are in the United States.
  
• Sustainability: We are committed to ethical and sustainable sourcing practices to support the long-term health of marine ecosystems.

In conclusion, the Burgess Butterfly is a captivating and peaceful addition to a saltwater marine aquarium. With proper care and suitable tank mates, it can thrive and bring beauty to your aquatic environment. For those interested in acquiring this species, Saltwaterfish.com is your trusted source for quality marine livestock and expert support.