Robustus (Three-Banded) Butterfly
Chaetodon robustus
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity |
|---|
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Monday – Friday 8 AM – 9 PM
Saturday 12 PM – 4 PM
Sunday 12 PM – 9 PM
Healthy, stable animals from vetted suppliers — inspected before packing, shipped overnight. Decades of experience built this model so we can deliver premium livestock at 30%+ less than you'd pay elsewhere.
| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | With Caution |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Omnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 70 gallons |
| Max Size | 6 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Robustus (Three-Banded) Butterfly (Chaetodon robustus) is a deep-bodied butterflyfish with three dark vertical bands, including a mask band through the eye. Yellow accents along the body and fins give it a clean, high-contrast look that stands out in FOWLR and fish-only reef displays.
What You’ll Observe:
- A steady, cruising swimmer that makes repeated “patrol loops” around rockwork and open areas
- Frequent pecking and picking at surfaces as it explores for small items
- A routine of short bursts of activity followed by relaxed hovering near structure
- More confident, out-in-front behavior as it learns your feeding schedule
Provide stable, well-oxygenated water and a layout with both open swimming lanes and rockwork it can weave through. Offer a varied menu of frozen and prepared foods in smaller portions more than once per day so it can feed naturally throughout the day. With a consistent routine, it settles into a predictable pattern and becomes an active, visible centerpiece fish.
Will it spend most of its time in the open or in the rocks?
Most keepers see a mix—open-water cruising with frequent passes through rockwork, especially between feedings.
Do these do better solo or as a pair?
A single fish is the simplest route; pairs are typically attempted by adding two specimens at the same time.
How do I get it to recognize prepared foods quickly?
Many respond well to meaty frozen options (like mysis or finely chopped seafood) offered in small, repeated feedings.
Is it normal for a butterflyfish to “inspect” everything with quick pecks?
Yes—this is common foraging behavior and often increases as the fish gets comfortable.
Will it bother decorative invertebrates on the rocks?
Some individuals may show extra interest in certain sessile inverts, so plan on observing its preferences in your specific tank.
We work with trusted suppliers who keep our specimens healthy and well-fed before shipping.
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