Pakistan Butterflyfish 

Also known as Collare Butterflyfish, Pakistani Butterflyfish

The Pakistan Butterflyfish is a stunning and highly sought-after species displaying bold chocolate-brown coloration with white markings and a distinctive yellow tail. Native to the Arabian Sea, this beautiful butterflyfish is more adaptable than many species but still requires attentive care.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon collare
• Common Names: Pakistan Butterflyfish, Collare Butterflyfish, Red-tailed Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 7 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial toward other butterflyfish
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum; 125+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Moderate; easier than many butterflyfish but still requires attention

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock creating caves and territories. This active species needs open areas for cruising. Benefits from well-established aquariums with stable conditions.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good to excellent water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain the stable conditions this species prefers.

Diet & Feeding 

Pakistan 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 seafood, krill, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, blackworms (helpful during initial acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods more readily than coral-feeding species

Notes & Considerations

• Striking coloration with chocolate-brown body, white markings, and bright yellow tail.
• More adaptable to aquarium life than many butterflyfish species.
• Generally peaceful toward non-butterflyfish tankmates.
• May be territorial toward other butterflyfish; provide adequate space.
• May nip at soft corals, anemones, and tube worms; monitor in reef aquariums.
• Active swimmer that cruises throughout the aquarium during the day.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Does well in peaceful community tanks with similar-sized fish.
• Can sometimes be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously.
• Arabian Sea/Indian Ocean origin; moderately available in the trade.
• Bold coloration makes it a standout in fish-only or FOWLR systems.

Why Choose a Quarantined Pakistan 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 striking and relatively hardy species.