Care
The Fourspot Butterflyfish is found almost exclusively on exposed seaward reefs, where it is often observed feeding on SPS corals, particularly the polyps of
Pocillopora species. This somewhat shy species is regarded as moderately difficult to keep in the home aquarium, and 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 9cm (3.5") in length. Smaller sized fish may be very reluctant to feed, and larger specimens can sometimes be rather finicky, requiring faultless water conditions. 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 Fourspot Butterflyfish alongside some of the more noxious soft corals, but this is something of a risk, and they should be observed carefully. Stony corals and many other sessile invertebrates will be constantly nipped at, so unfortunately must be avoided. Keep only one Fourspot 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 Neonbanded Butterflyfish.
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.
