Raccoon Butterflyfish

The Raccoon Butterflyfish, *Chaetodon lunula*, is a striking and popular addition to the marine aquarium. Its common name is derived from the distinctive black band that runs across its eyes, resembling a raccoon's mask. The body is primarily yellow with a series of dark, crescent-shaped markings along the flanks, giving it a unique and attractive appearance.

A minimum tank size of 70 gallons is recommended for the Raccoon Butterflyfish, providing ample space for swimming and exploration. A well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock is ideal, offering hiding places and natural grazing opportunities. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be territorial with conspecifics or other butterflyfish. They are not considered reef-safe, as they are known to nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clam mantles.

In the wild, the Raccoon Butterflyfish primarily feeds on invertebrates and algae. In the aquarium, a varied diet is essential for their health and longevity. Offer a mix of high-quality marine flake and pellet foods, frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods. Supplementing their diet with marine algae or spirulina will also be beneficial. They can grow up to 8 inches in length in a home aquarium. Sexing is difficult, and breeding in captivity is not common.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon lunula
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatibility: Semi-Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 1.75"
• Recommended Tank Size: 75 gallons