Chaetodon collare – Red-Tailed Butterflyfish

The Chaetodon collare, commonly known as the Red-Tailed Butterflyfish or Collared Butterflyfish, is an elegant and eye-catching species found in the Indo-Pacific region. It features a striking combination of dark brown coloration with a fine pattern of scales, a distinct white collar-like marking behind the head, and a vivid red-orange tail, making it a standout addition to large marine aquariums.

This species thrives in well-established tanks with plenty of live rock, coral formations, and open swimming space. While it is generally peaceful, it can be territorial toward other butterflyfish. Due to its natural diet, which consists of coral polyps and small invertebrates, it is not fully reef-safe and may nip at corals, making it better suited for fish-only or FOWLR (Fish Only with Live Rock) aquariums.

Chaetodon collare requires a varied diet, including high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, as well as marine-based pellets and flakes. It thrives best in stable water conditions with high-quality filtration.

Key Features:
✔ Beautiful contrast of dark brown, white, and a vibrant red tail
✔ Peaceful but may be territorial toward similar species
✔ Best suited for fish-only or FOWLR aquariums (not fully reef-safe)
✔ Requires a varied diet of frozen and prepared marine foods
✔ Thrives in well-maintained, spacious tanks with plenty of swimming room

The Red-Tailed Butterflyfish is a stunning and graceful addition to a marine aquarium, offering both beauty and active swimming behavior.