Pakistan Butterflyfish

The Pakistan Butterflyfish is a handsome Indian Ocean species distinguished by its rich chocolate-brown body covered with a fine reticulated or crosshatch pattern created by darker scale margins. A white collar band separates the dark head region from the body, and the tail is accented with red-orange hues. A characteristic dark eye band passes through the eye, and the overall coloration gives this fish a warm, earthy appearance unlike the brighter yellows and whites of many Indo-Pacific butterflyfish.

In the marine aquarium, the Pakistan Butterflyfish is one of the hardier members of its genus, adapting to captive conditions more readily than many of its relatives. While it may require some patience during the initial acclimation period, most specimens begin accepting frozen foods within a few days to a couple of weeks. Its relatively robust constitution and willingness to feed make it a good choice for aquarists with some butterflyfish experience.

This species is not considered reef safe and will pick at soft coral polyps, zoanthids, feather duster worms, and other sessile invertebrates. It is best suited for fish-only or FOWLR aquariums with ample live rock for shelter and natural foraging. The Pakistan Butterflyfish is peaceful toward other fish species and can be kept singly or occasionally as a mated pair in larger systems.