Burgess Butterfly (Asia Pacific)

The epitome of grace and beauty, the spectacular Burgess butterfly makes a striking center piece. Cutting across its stark white body are three inky black stripes, each one enlarging towards its tail. It grows up to 5.5 inches and needs an aquarium of at least 75 gallons.

The Burgess butterfly is a rare treasure from deep water, and thus appreciates a dimly lit aquarium, at least initially. This species is normally quite peaceful and should not be kept with aggressive tank mates. It can be kept in pairs or groups which should be added at the same time to a large aquarium. Butterflyfish do not show differences between males and females. They are related to angelfish, but lack the angel's distinctive cheek spines.

A butterflyfish's favorite food is an anemone, so they should not be kept in the same aquarium with one unless it is guarded by aggressive clownfish. The butterflyfish knows to attack the anemone on its mouth, which does not sting, and will make a quick meal of it. Because of this behavior this species is often employed to rid an aquarium of pest anemones such as Aiptasia. Many species of butterfly also benefit from filamentous algae in the aquarium to graze on.

This species may nip on many corals especially LPS, clam mantles, sponges, and feather dusters. It is sometimes safe with soft corals such as mushrooms and colt, or SPS, however caution should still be exercised if attempting it in a reef aquarium. They do not typically bother other types of invertebrates such as crustaceans. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. This species is easy to feed on a variety of meaty and herbivore preparations such as frozen Mysis shrimp, half shell clams, marine algae and Spirulina; it should be fed 2-3 times a day.