Larvatus Butterfly

[alfon76]

I saw a few pics of this fish and decided to ask for some info here. I am not planning on buying any butterflies any time soon but I want to do my research as I liked the colors on this fish. Have been reading conflicting info online and in books where some people say it is easy, hardy and a great fish and others say it is impossible to keep and an exclusive coral feeder.
Needless to say, I do not want to spend $100+ on a fish that will certainly die on me if this is the case. But if the fish is indeed hardy and tends to do good in captivity then I would consider it in the future. Any thoughts, comments, good sources of info? Anything that might help me make an educated purchase will be appreciated.
Thanks,
Ivan

 

[perodogo]

Do you mean the Semilarvatus Butterfly or the Golden Butterfly?? If this is the fish you're asking about, I had one of these a couple of years ago and I found it to be a very hardy specimen. Unfortunately, when we moved to our new house, I had to move him to a friend's aquarium until I could set up my 500 gallon, but he didn't make it.
Here's a picture of him when I had him in QT (about 5" long). He ate anything I put in the tank. I would highly recommend this fish but you should consider his tankmates. I seem to remember that you have a purple tang and a triggerfish, so it would not be wise to put him with these guys. I also recommend purchasing one that is at least 4" since the little ones don't seem to adapt well, jmo.
Regards

 

[alfon76]

Hi there:
Thanks for your reply. I actually mean a Chaetodon larvatus. I believe its trade name is Orange Faced Butterfly or Masked Butterfly. It also hails from the Red Sea. I am going to get a pair of Semilarvatus soon though and they are in great shape. They are not going to the same tank where I have the more aggressive fish. I have a smaller tank (75 gallons) where I will keep more peaceful fish (possibly a nice butterfly fish collection).
If you have any info on the Larvatus butterfly or know where I can find some info, please let me know.
Ivan
PS. I don't know if you saw the pic of my male Scribbled that I posted a while back but if you didn't let me know and I will post it again.

 

[perodogo]

Sorry about the confusion. No, I don't know anything about the other butterfly fish, but if it's from the Red Sea, it may be similar in temperament and hardiness as the Golden. Maybe someone else has experience with this fish.
I did see your Scribbled Angel and he looks awesome. Mine is not as bright in coloration as yours and I believe mine is a she. Regardless, my Scribbled is one of my favorite angels in my tank.
I was also going to add to my earlier reply that Golden butterflies do best in pairs, so you're off to a good start.
Keep us posted.
Regards