Care
The Yellowhead Butterflyfish is known from the tropical waters of the East African coast, eastwards to Sri Lanka, and over to the Maldives, western Thailand, and north-western Sumatra. These fish are usually solitary, but are occasionally seen forming small, loose aggregations (5-6 individuals) around isolated coral heads and algae-rich rocky reefs, where they may be observed feeding on coral polyps and benthic algae, to depths of 30m (98ft). This species is regarded as moderately difficult, and is therefore recommended for advanced aquarists only. A large, 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 and choose a healthy, alert specimen around 10cm (4") in length. Smaller sized fish may be reluctant to feed, and larger specimens can be very finicky, requiring significant space and 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 Yellowhead 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 other sessile invertebrates will be constantly nipped at, so unfortunately must be avoided. Keep only one Yellowhead Butterflyfish per tank and do not house with any other butterflyfish as they will squabble over territories. Whilst they can be a little shy when first introduced, providing them with ample retreats amongst the live rock will ensure they quickly gain confidence and venture out into the open. Once settled, these peaceful fish actually become very assertive feeders and will compete with most other fish species. In the wild, natural hybrids with the Saddled Butterflyfish (
C. ephippium) have been observed where their ranges overlap. May also be seen on sale as Goldhead/Goldheaded Butterflyfish, Goldring Butterflyfish, or Yellowheaded Butterflyfish.
Feeding
Feed small amounts several times per day, and be sure to offer a good variety of different foods. Frozen fare such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped clam/mussel/cockle/crab/shrimp/squid etc. can be proffered, but - most importantly "“ do ensure that the larger foodstuffs are chopped into small enough pieces on account of butterflyfish having tiny mouths.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in captivity. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water.
