Pakistan Butterflyfish

Introduction: • Common Names: Pakistan Butterflyfish • Natural Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in coral reefs and lagoons along the coasts of Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Characterized by a vibrant yellow body with a prominent black line running through the eyes, resembling a "collar." It has a distinctive black marking near the tail and a smooth, streamlined shape. • Size: Grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Typically lives for 5-7 years in an aquarium with optimal care. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Minimum of 70 gallons for a single specimen; larger tanks are recommended for multiple fish or mixed species setups. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C). o pH: 8.1-8.4. o Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity. • Aquascaping: Requires live rock for grazing and hiding, along with moderate water flow to mimic its natural reef environment. Diet: • Primary Diet: Herbivorous; feeds on algae and small invertebrates found on the coral reef. • Supplemental Feeding: Offer a variety of foods such as algae sheets, high-quality flake or pellet foods, and occasional meaty foods like mysis or brine shrimp. • Feeding Frequency: Feed multiple times a day in small portions to ensure proper nutrition. Compatibility: • Temperament: Generally peaceful but may show aggression towards other butterflyfish or similar-shaped species. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful reef fish like tangs, wrasses, and smaller species that do not compete for food. • Incompatibilities: Avoid keeping with aggressive or fin-nipping species that could stress the Pakistan Butterflyfish. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate; requires a stable reef environment and consistent care, particularly in water quality. • Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of stress or disease, such as fading coloration or unusual swimming behavior, which may indicate poor water quality or malnutrition. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Rarely breeds in home aquariums due to its specific reproductive needs, but can spawn in larger, established tanks with proper conditions. • Spawning: Typically spawns in pairs, with eggs released in open water where external fertilization occurs. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: This species is considered moderately sought after in the aquarium trade for its beauty and distinctive coloration. • Pricing: Priced higher due to its attractive appearance and moderate care requirements. Conclusion: The Pakistan Butterflyfish is a stunning and distinctive species ideal for larger reef aquariums. While requiring a peaceful environment and a stable reef tank, its striking yellow body and unique "collar" make it a popular choice for experienced aquarists. With the right care, the Pakistan Butterflyfish can be a rewarding and long-lasting addition to any marine aquarium.