Auriga Butterflyfish 

Also known as Threadfin Butterflyfish, Cross-Stripe Butterflyfish

The Auriga Butterflyfish is one of the hardiest and most adaptable butterflyfish species available in the aquarium trade. Displaying elegant yellow and white diagonal stripes with a distinctive black eyespot, this peaceful fish is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to keep their first butterflyfish.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon auriga
• Common Names: Auriga Butterflyfish, Threadfin Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 8 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and generally reef safe with caution
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; one of the easier butterflyfish to maintain

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock arranged to create caves and swimming lanes. This active species needs open areas for cruising. Prefers well-established tanks with stable conditions.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Excellent water quality is essential
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • High-quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain the pristine conditions butterflyfish require.

Diet & Feeding

Auriga Butterflyfish are omnivores requiring varied nutrition. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped clams, krill, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae (occasional supplement)
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, blackworms (helpful for initial acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods more readily than most butterflyfish

Notes & Considerations

• Among the hardiest butterflyfish species; excellent choice for first-time butterflyfish keepers.
• Generally peaceful toward other fish but may be territorial toward other butterflyfish.
• May nip at soft corals, zoanthids, anemones, and feather dusters; monitor closely in reef tanks.
• Distinctive threadlike filament extending from dorsal fin (may be absent in some specimens).
• Active swimmer that adds graceful movement throughout the aquarium.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Often sold in pairs; paired specimens may do well together if introduced simultaneously.
• More adaptable to captive conditions than obligate coral-feeding butterflyfish.
• Does best in peaceful community tanks without aggressive species.

Why Choose a Quarantined Auriga Butterflyfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this elegant and hardy species.