Saddleback Butterflyfish

The Saddleback Butterflyfish, *Chaetodon ephippium*, is a striking and elegant addition to a large marine aquarium. Its body is primarily a vibrant yellow, transitioning to a white belly. A prominent, large black saddle-like marking covers the posterior half of its back, extending onto the dorsal fin. The dorsal fin is edged in bright orange, and a thin black line runs through the eye.

A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended for this species, providing ample swimming space and plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be territorial with conspecifics or similar-looking species. The Saddleback Butterflyfish is not considered reef-safe, as it is known to nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clam mantles.

In the wild, they primarily feed on coral polyps and benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, a varied diet is essential, including marine algae, high-quality butterflyfish preparations, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods. They can grow up to 12 inches in length in a well-maintained aquarium. Sexing is difficult, and breeding in captivity is not common.