Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish
Chaetodon trifasciatus
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Butterflyfish
Family: Butterflyfish
Log in or create an account to add this species to your tanks.
Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish
General information
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish are a popular species for saltwater aquariums due to their striking appearance. They grow up to 8 inches in length and prefer to live in groups. They are relatively easy to care for but require a well-maintained aquarium with plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas.
Diet & nutrition
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish are omnivores and require a varied diet consisting of both meaty and plant-based foods. They can be fed frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and krill, as well as flakes and pellets specifically designed for marine fish.
Determining sex
It is difficult to determine the sex of Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish without examining their reproductive organs. However, males may have a more elongated and pointed dorsal fin than females.
Breeding & spawning
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish have not been bred in captivity, so little is known about their breeding and spawning habits.
Diseases
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish are susceptible to common saltwater fish diseases such as ich, velvet, and fin rot. Proper tank maintenance, including regular water changes, can help prevent these diseases.
Origination
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish are native to the Indian Ocean, specifically the coast of East Africa to the western Pacific, including the Maldives, Mauritius, and the Seychelles.
Cautions
Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish are not known to be aggressive, but they may be territorial and exhibit aggression towards other butterflyfish. They may also nip at stony corals and other sessile invertebrates, so caution should be taken when selecting tank mates and decor.
Acclimation process
When introducing Indian Ocean Redfin Butterflyfish to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to prevent shock. Float the bag containing the fish in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes to allow the temperature to equalize, then open the bag and add small amounts of aquarium water every few minutes until the bag is full. Leave the fish in the bag for an additional 15-20 minutes before releasing them into the aquarium.
All photos
Tap a photo to open the gallery viewer.