Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chaetodon trifasciatus

Common Name: Melon Butterflyfish

Species Group: Butterflyfish

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet Type: Omnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 8 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 75 (gallons)

Native Range: Indian Ocean, from East Africa to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and western Indonesia

Chaetodon Trifasciatus - The Melon Butterflyfish

Chaetodon Trifasciatus (The Melon Butterflyfish)

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, primarily found in coral reefs and lagoons.
Recognized for its vibrant orange-yellow body with a series of thin blue vertical lines.
A delicate species that requires a stable, well-maintained aquarium environment.
Often observed in pairs, particularly in regions with high coral density.
Best suited for experienced aquarists due to its specialized dietary needs and sensitivity to water quality.

Obligate corallivore, feeding almost exclusively on live coral polyps in the wild.
Requires a diet that includes sponge-based foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine algae.
Can be challenging to transition to prepared foods; offering a variety of foods improves acclimation success.
Frequent small meals throughout the day help sustain energy levels and maintain digestive health.
A nutrient-rich diet enhances coloration, immune function, and overall vitality.

Prefers coral-dense environments with moderate water flow and abundant reef cover.
Often found in shallow reefs where it can graze on soft corals and sponges.
Aquarium setups should include live rock to encourage natural grazing and provide hiding spots.
Requires high-quality water conditions with stable parameters to ensure long-term health.
Providing shaded areas and open swimming space helps replicate its natural environment.

Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C) to promote healthy metabolic function.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires regular water changes and strong filtration to maintain pristine water conditions.
Not reef-safe, as it will actively graze on coral polyps and sessile invertebrates.
Providing live rock enhances foraging opportunities and reduces stress.

Generally peaceful but may show territorial tendencies toward other butterflyfish.
Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive marine species.
Not suitable for reef tanks due to its natural feeding habits.
Should be housed with similarly sized fish to prevent intimidation or food competition.
Providing adequate space and structured territories helps maintain harmony in the aquarium.

An active and curious species that enjoys exploring rock structures and corals.
Frequently observed grazing on rock surfaces and searching for food.
May take time to adjust to captivity but becomes more comfortable over time.
Providing live rock encourages natural foraging behavior and keeps the fish engaged.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and display curiosity, especially during feeding sessions.