Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish is another beautiful example why marine Butterflyfish remain perennial favorites among hobbyists. This gorgeous fish boosts visual interest with lively color and eye-catching, graphic patterning.

Highlights of yellow coloration gracefully trace the tips of the dorsal fin for a truly elegant effect.

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish is part of the “xanthurus complex” consisting of lookalike species with similar latticed pattern. The Mertensii Butterflyfish is a great example of a lookalike.

Similar to other Butterflyfish, the Pearlscale Butterflyfish may require extra “TLC” when first acclimating to the home aquarium. The diet of the Pearlscale Butterflyfish should include various meaty preparations including frozen, freeze-dried, fresh or flake food. Also provide regular vegetable food source and vitamin-boosting supplements.