Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chaetodon lunula

Common Name: Raccoon Butterflyfish

Species Group: Butterflyfish

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet Type: Omnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 8 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 125 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific, including Hawaii, the Red Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef

Chaetodon Lunula - The Raccoon Butterflyfish

Chaetodon Lunula (The Raccoon Butterflyfish)

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, frequently found in coral reefs, lagoons, and coastal waters.
Named for its distinctive black "mask" over the eyes, resembling a raccoon, with a yellow body and white markings.
A hardy butterflyfish species that adapts well to captivity compared to others in its genus.
Typically seen in pairs or small groups in the wild, but also observed solitary in some regions.
Best suited for a well-maintained marine aquarium with live rock and open swimming areas.

Omnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, small crustaceans, and algae in the wild.
Accepts a variety of foods in captivity, including frozen mysis shrimp, marine pellets, and sponge-based preparations.
May take time to acclimate to prepared foods, but once adjusted, it is not a picky eater.
Offering multiple small feedings per day mimics its natural foraging habits.
A well-balanced diet ensures proper nutrition and supports its vibrant coloration.

Prefers reef environments with moderate water movement and coral structures for shelter.
Often found near reef slopes and rocky outcroppings where food sources are abundant.
Aquarium setups should include live rock for natural foraging and ample hiding places.
Requires stable water conditions and a well-maintained filtration system to thrive.
Providing shaded areas alongside open swimming space encourages natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support overall health.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires consistent water quality with frequent maintenance to ensure optimal health.
Not fully reef-safe, as it may nip at corals and invertebrates.
Providing rock structures encourages grazing behavior and adds environmental enrichment.

Generally peaceful but may become territorial if housed with other butterflyfish.
Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other semi-aggressive marine fish.
Not entirely reef-safe, as it has a tendency to graze on coral polyps and sessile invertebrates.
Should not be housed with overly aggressive fish that may cause stress or competition for food.
Providing adequate swimming space and rock formations reduces territorial aggression.

An active swimmer that enjoys exploring its surroundings and interacting with tankmates.
Frequently seen picking at rock surfaces and searching for food.
May take time to acclimate to a new environment but becomes more confident over time.
Providing live rock enhances foraging behaviors and creates a more engaging tank setup.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and show curiosity, particularly during feeding sessions.