Teardrop Yellow Butterfly
Chaetodon interruptus
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity |
|---|
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| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | No |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Omnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 120 gallons |
| Max Size | 8 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Teardrop Yellow Butterfly (Chaetodon interruptus) is a bright yellow butterflyfish with a bold black “teardrop” marking high on the body and a dark eye band. It’s an Indian Ocean species that spends its day cruising the rockwork and reef faces, stopping often to pick at surfaces.
What You’ll Observe:
- Steady daytime swimming with frequent “pecking” stops on rock and glass
- A consistent route through the tank once it settles in
- Pair-style swimming and synchronized movement when kept with a compatible mate
- Interest in feeding time and quick recognition of a regular feeding spot
To help this species do well, provide mature rockwork for natural grazing plus open water for cruising. Offer a varied menu of frozen meaty foods, quality pellets, and foods with some plant/sponge content, given in smaller portions multiple times per day. In larger systems, introduce a pair together if you want to keep two.
How do you encourage it to take prepared foods quickly?
Start with small, frequent offerings of frozen foods (like mysis and finely chopped seafood) in the same spot each feeding so it learns a routine.
Is constant picking at rockwork “normal” behavior?
Yes—this species naturally forages by pecking at surfaces throughout the day, even when it’s eating well at feeding time.
Should you use a feeding clip or nori for this fish?
Many keepers use nori as a supplement; it often investigates it over time, especially when the fish is already settled and on a regular schedule.
Can you keep two together without constant chasing?
It’s most consistent when both fish are added at the same time and given enough structure and space to establish a shared routine.
Why does it sometimes look paler right after lights-out?
Many butterflyfish shift into a resting coloration at night; normal daytime color typically returns after the lights come back on.
Shipped with pure oxygen and temperature control so it arrives stress-free and ready to eat.
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