Yellowhead Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthocephalus)

The Yellowhead Butterflyfish is a stunning and rare marine species characterized by its bright yellow head and soft blue-gray body. Its elegance and distinct appearance make it an excellent choice for large display aquariums, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of butterflyfish species.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches.
• Tank Size: 120 gallons minimum, with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on algae, coral polyps, and small invertebrates. Needs a varied diet of marine-based frozen foods, including brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; does well in a community tank but should not be housed with aggressive species.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires specific care and pristine water conditions, especially if kept in a reef tank.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; may nip at soft and stony corals, so it's not considered fully reef-safe.

Color Variation by Locality

• Indian Ocean: Typically displays a vivid yellow head, with the rest of the body fading into a bluish-gray hue.
• Eastern Africa & Maldives: These individuals may exhibit slightly different intensity in body coloration or pattern depending on habitat conditions​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found mainly in the Indian Ocean, particularly along the coasts of East Africa, the Maldives, and the Seychelles. This species inhabits coral reefs and lagoon areas, preferring depths of 5 to 30 meters where it forages for small invertebrates and coral polyps​.