Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chaetodon capistratus

Common Name: Four-Eyed Butterflyfish

Species Group: Butterflyfish

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet Type: Omnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 6 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 75 (gallons)

Native Range: Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico

Chaetodon Capistratus - The Four-Eyed Butterflyfish

Chaetodon Capistratus (The Four-Eyed Butterflyfish)

Native to the Western Atlantic, commonly found in coral reefs, seagrass beds, and shallow coastal waters.
Easily identified by its silvery-gray body with a black vertical stripe through the eye and a large false eyespot near the tail.
A relatively hardy species that adapts well to captivity when provided with optimal care.
Often found in pairs in the wild, particularly during the breeding season.
Best suited for a well-maintained marine aquarium with plenty of live rock and swimming space.

Omnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, coral polyps, and algae in the wild.
In captivity, it requires a diverse diet including sponge-based foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and marine algae.
May take time to adjust to prepared foods, so offering live or frozen food initially can help with acclimation.
Frequent small meals throughout the day help mimic its natural feeding habits.
A varied diet promotes overall health, immune function, and vibrant coloration.

Commonly found in shallow coral reef environments with plenty of rock formations for shelter.
Prefers stable water conditions with moderate to low currents.
Aquarium setups should include live rock to encourage natural foraging behavior.
Thrives in clean, well-oxygenated water, requiring high-quality filtration.
Providing natural hiding spaces helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support overall health.
Recommended pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires stable water conditions with regular maintenance and water changes.
Not considered fully reef-safe, as it may nip at corals and small invertebrates.
Providing an enriched environment with plenty of live rock structures supports its natural feeding instincts.

Generally peaceful but may show territorial behavior towards other butterflyfish.
Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive marine fish.
Not completely reef-safe, as it has a tendency to graze on soft corals and sessile invertebrates.
Should not be housed with aggressive tankmates that may stress or outcompete it for food.
Providing adequate swimming space and rock formations reduces potential territorial disputes.

An active and curious species that enjoys exploring its surroundings.
Frequently seen picking at rock formations and searching for food.
May take time to acclimate but will become more confident as it adjusts.
Providing live rock encourages natural grazing behaviors and enhances comfort in the tank.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and respond actively during feeding sessions.