Care
The Tahitian Butterflyfish is known from the shallow, rocky, lagoon reefs of the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and Tahiti. These fish are usually observed as solitary specimens or as pairs (when breeding) but are also sometimes seen in small aggregations, at a maximum depth of 25m (82ft). They are known to feed over the substrate (most likely on various soft coral polyps and algaes) in addition to taking zooplankton from the water column. Despite the relatively limited distribution, the Tahitian Butterflyfish is said to occur in large populations; however, it is seldomly seen in the trade. This is a relatively hardy species and can be kept successfully in reef aquaria, providing it is kept well fed and is housed only with some of the more noxious soft corals that will not be too palatable. The Tahitian Butterflyfish is considered one of the most durable members of the butterflyfish family, and in larger aquaria it can be kept alongside other fairly peaceable butterflyfish and even members of its own kind, if they are introduced simultaneously. Ideally, tankmates should be fairly peaceful, although it can be housed with moderately aggressive species as long as it is introduced to the aquarium before they are, and providing there are plenty of visual barriers amongst the decor. This fish does best in mature aquaria containing plenty of live rock for the fish to browse on and forage amongst. As with all butterflyfishes, this species demands excellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, with areas of decent current. Known to be a voracious eater of the pest anemone Aiptasia.
Feeding
Omnivorous. Offer a varied diet including Mysis, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Angel & Butterfly mix, and finely chopped krill, prawns, clam etc., plus some greenfoods. Feed small amounts several times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in captivity. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water.
