Product Description
The Klein's Butterflyfish (Chaetodon kleinii) is one of the hardiest and most adaptable butterflyfish available in the marine aquarium hobby. It features a warm golden-yellow to brownish body with subtle vertical striping and a distinctive eye band, giving it a soft but attractive presence in saltwater aquariums.
Unlike many more delicate butterflyfish, Klein’s Butterflyfish is often considered more beginner-friendly (for marine standards), making it a popular choice for larger, well-established fish-only or cautiously maintained reef systems.
Care Guide
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Scientific Name: Chaetodon kleinii
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Common Name: Klein’s Butterflyfish
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Care Level: Moderate
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Diet: Omnivore (sponges, marine algae, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, quality marine pellets)
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Reef Safe: With caution (may nip at soft corals, LPS corals, anemones, and feather dusters)
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Minimum Tank Size: 250 litres
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Water Temperature: 24–27°C
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
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Maximum Size: Up to 15cm
Feeding
Feed two to three times daily with a varied diet including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, sponge-based foods, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets or flakes. Regular feeding supports health and reduces stress.
Aquarium Setup
Provide a mature aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, along with open swimming areas. Stable water parameters and good filtration are essential for long-term success.
Compatibility
Suitable with:
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Clownfish
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Tangs
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Wrasses
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Gobies
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Blennies
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Anthias
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Most peaceful marine community fish
Avoid housing with:
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Highly aggressive or territorial species
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Reef aquariums with prized corals and delicate invertebrates
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Other butterflyfish in smaller setups
Klein’s Butterflyfish is a hardy and attractive marine species that offers a balance of beauty and resilience, making it a strong option for experienced aquarists looking to add a butterflyfish to a mature saltwater aquarium.
