Care
The Black Butterflyfish is known from the coast of eastern Australia and eastwards to the Pitcairn Islands. Here these striking fish are encountered at coral-rich and algae-covered sheltered inner reefs/lagoons, and occasionally estuaries, to depths of 20m (66ft). Juvenile fish tend to prefer the sanctuary of protected inner reef areas, whereas the adults are habitually observed singly or in pairs (and very occasionally in large aggregations) out on the reef, feeding on algae, coral polyps, and small benthic invertebrates. This species is seldom seen in the trade and is regarded as moderately difficult to keep in the home aquarium. It is therefore recommended for advanced aquarists only. A good-sized, mature system is requisite, along with ample live rock for the fish to browse upon/hide amongst and a large open swimming space along the front of the aquarium. Medium sized specimens tend to acclimatise better to aquarium life, adapting much more quickly to various prepared foods, so try to choose a healthy, alert specimen around 10cm (3.9") in length. Smaller fish may be very reluctant to feed, and larger specimens can be incredibly finicky, requiring faultless water conditions and an abundance of live food. An aquarium that has some areas of lush filamentous algae growth will also aid your new fish in settling into its new surroundings; however, as with other butterflyfish species, these fish demand excellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, with areas of brisk current. Some aquarists have successfully kept the Black Butterflyfish alongside some of the more noxious soft corals, but this is something of a risk, and they should be observed carefully. Most corals and motile invertebrates will be constantly nipped at, so unfortunately are best avoided. Keep only one Black Butterflyfish per tank (unless a mated pair is acquired) and not with any other butterflyfish as they will squabble over territories. Whilst they can be rather shy when first introduced, providing them with ample retreats amongst the live rock should ensure they eventually gain confidence and venture out into the open much more. Tankmates should be of similar size and temperament; it is imperative that boisterous companions are avoided if this fish is to settle in and feed. May also be seen on sale as Dusky Butterflyfish or Yellow-faced Butterflyfish. ***Not suitable for beginners***
Feeding
Offer a wide variety of foods, fed in small amounts several times per day. Frozen foods such as Angel & Butterfly mix, Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped clam/mussel/cockle/crab/shrimp/squid etc should be given, along with some greenfoods. Ensure the larger foodstuffs are chopped into small enough pieces on account of butterflyfish having tiny mouths. May require live foods to initiate a feeding response when first added to the aquarium.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in captivity. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water where they are dispersed by the currents.
