Chaetodon Blackburnii | All sizes

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish (Chaetodon blackburnii) – Rare Hawaiian Endemic with Subtle Elegance

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish is a unique and highly sought-after species native to the Hawaiian Islands. Known for its refined coloration and limited geographic range, Chaetodon blackburnii is a prized addition for collectors and aquarists looking for something less commonly seen in the trade.

Subtle Beauty with Distinctive Markings

This species features a soft gray to silvery body with fine vertical striping and a gentle yellow hue along the dorsal area. A bold black band runs through the eye, providing contrast against its otherwise understated appearance. Its clean lines and balanced pattern give it a calm, elegant presence in the aquarium.

Peaceful but Shy Nature

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish is generally peaceful, making it suitable for community aquariums with other non-aggressive species. However, it can be shy, especially during acclimation, and benefits from a calm environment with plenty of hiding spaces. Avoid housing it with aggressive or overly active tank mates.

Feeding and Care

This species may require some patience when it comes to feeding, particularly in the early stages. In the wild, it feeds on coral polyps and small invertebrates, but many individuals will adapt to a varied aquarium diet over time. Offer frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, along with high-quality prepared foods.

A mature aquarium with stable water conditions and live rock is essential to support natural grazing behavior and reduce stress.

Reef Tank Considerations

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish is not reef safe, as it is likely to nip at both soft and stony corals, as well as other sessile invertebrates. It is best suited to fish-only systems or carefully managed aquariums where coral compatibility is not a priority.

A Collector’s Choice for Experienced Aquarists

Due to its rarity and slightly more delicate nature, Chaetodon blackburnii is best suited for aquarists with some experience. With proper care, it rewards its keeper with graceful behavior and a unique presence that stands out from more common butterflyfish species.

Quick Specifications

Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Safe: No
Minimum Tank Size: 250 liters (65 gallons)
Origin: Hawaii

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish offers understated beauty and exclusivity, making it a refined and rewarding addition to a thoughtfully maintained marine aquarium.