Wrought Iron Butterflyfish 2023 Best Info With Details is our today’s topic. The wrought iron butterflyfish is a captivating species known for its distinctive appearance and rarity. Unlike its colorful counterparts, this fish boasts metallic black scales with hints of yellow, making it a prized addition to saltwater aquariums. Originating from several Japanese islands, it is a rare sight elsewhere. Here are some intriguing facts about this remarkable creature.
Wrought Iron Butterflyfish 2023 Best Info With Details
Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Scientific Classification | Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Locations | Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Conservation Status | |
Kingdom | Animalia | Ocean | Least Concern |
Phylum | Chordata | ||
Class | Actinopterygii | ||
Order | Perciformes | ||
Family | Chaetodontidae | ||
Genus | Chaetodon | ||
Scientific Name | Chaetodon daedalma | ||
Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Facts | Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Physical Characteristics | ||||
| Prey | Plankton and other invertebrates. | Optimum pH Level | 7.0 to 7.8 | Color | Black |
| Group Behavior | Group | Habitat | Rocky coral reef | Skin Type | Scales |
| Fun Fact | It is endemic to Japan. | Diet | Omnivore | Lifespan | 7+ years |
| Estimated Population Size | Unknown | Type | Fish | Length | 6+ inches |
| Biggest Threat | Fishing | Common Name | Wrought iron butterflyfish | ||
| Most Distinctive Feature | Metallic black body | Number Of Species | 1 | ||
Body:
- Habitat and Rarity: The wrought iron butterflyfish is native to select Japanese islands, making it a seldom-seen species outside its natural habitat.
- Commercial Appeal: This fish holds retail value, often fetching thousands of dollars in the pet trade due to its unique features and scarcity.
- Exclusivity and Price: It can command prices exceeding $4,000 among the world’s priciest fish. For those interested, the Waikiki Aquarium in Hawaii offers a chance to view one.
- Natural Environment: This species thrives near saltwater coral reefs, where it sources food.
- Swift Escapes: Possessing speed, the wrought iron butterflyfish swiftly evades predators in its habitat.
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Classification And Scientific Name:
The scientific name of the Wrought Iron Butterfly Fish is Chaetodon daedalma. It belongs to the Chaetodontidae family and the Actinopterygii class. No subspecies have been recognized to date. The name was coined by ichthyologists David Starr Jordan and Henry Weed Fowler. “Daedalma” refers to an embroidery pattern, alluding to the fish’s distinctive markings. “Chaetodon” is derived from the Greek words for “hair” and “teeth.”
Appearance:
This butterflyfish earns its name from its metallic black body, complemented by yellow accents on the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. The scales exhibit black borders surrounding a yellow center, setting it apart from its more vivid counterparts.
Distribution And Habitat:
Primarily found in the Pacific Ocean near Japan, the wrought iron butterflyfish is considered of Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population.
Locating And Observing:
Spotting these fish outside Japanese waters is rare, except through the pet trade. They prefer depths of at least 33 feet and often gather in schools of about ten individuals. Daytime observation, when they feed on algae and benthic invertebrates, offers the best chance to witness them. Many aquariums house these captivating creatures, especially those resembling Hawaii’s reef environment.
Predators And Prey:
Lacking defensive mechanisms, the wrought iron butterflyfish relies on speed to evade predators. While they may occasionally consume invertebrates, their diet mainly consists of algae. Larger fish, including moray eels, groupers, and snappers, pose threats. Juveniles can even fall prey to sharks and other sizable predators.
Reproduction And Lifespan:
During breeding, these butterflyfish form monogamous pairs, remaining together for life. Fertilization occurs externally, requiring water with a pH between 7.0 and 7.8. Parental care is absent, and if left to hatch in the tank, the parents may consume the fry. The immobile young fish are inefficient hunters.
In Fishing And Cooking:
Due to their high cost and specific environmental needs, wrought iron butterflyfish are not typically pursued for sport. They are not consumed as food, as they lack toxins, but are better suited as captivating aquarium additions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Hardy?
Yes, they adapt well to aquariums and are relatively easy to feed. They can be found for sale online, often at a premium price.
Are Butterflyfish Easy To Keep?
Yes, but their size requires spacious tanks. Juvenile butterflyfish can be costly, with tanks adding to the expense.
How Rare Is A Wrought Iron Butterflyfish?
They are relatively uncommon, primarily found in the wild near Japan from April to September.
What Do Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Indicate?
Their presence around coral reefs is a positive sign of reef health.
Where Are Wrought Iron Butterflyfish Found?
They are specific to the western Pacific Ocean, particularly around central and southern Japan. They can be sold online or in select aquariums, especially in Hawaii.
Conclusion:
With its captivating appearance and elusive nature, the wrought iron butterflyfish remains a prized gem in the world of saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. Its unique characteristics and rarity make it a true marvel of the aquatic realm, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to protect such extraordinary species. I hope you enjoy reading our article Wrought Iron Butterflyfish 2023 Best Info With Details.
