We’ve now had Luca, our Declivis Butterfly for four months. In this time we’ve learned quite a bit about this beautiful species and their anomalous personality. The Diver’s Den photo of Luca You may notice the striking resemblance to other Chaetodontids, such as the Tinker’s Butterfly (Chaetodon tinkeri). They are in fact very similar, as they [...]
We’ve now had Luca, our Declivis Butterfly for four months. In this time we’ve learned quite a bit about this beautiful species and their anomalous personality.
The Diver’s Den photo of Luca
You may notice the striking resemblance to other Chaetodontids, such as the Tinker’s Butterfly (Chaetodon tinkeri). They are in fact very similar, as they belong to the same Tinker’s or Roaops complex that include: C. declivis, C. tinkeri, C. burgessi, C. mitratus, and C. flavocoronatus. It is not unheard of for these fish to hybridize together. All of these fish are they are a deepwater and should be provided a temperature of 70-78F.
The Declivis Butterfly (Randall, 1975) is a rare fish in the aquarium trade as they have a limited distribution nearby the Christmas, Line, and Marquesan Islands. This combined with the deepwater habitat in which they live, creates a high pricetag for hobbyists. The most difficult part about caring for this fish, is the initial purchase and wallet pains; they adapt very well to captive life thereafter.
In the wild the Declivis Butterfly feeds on a variety of foods including coral polyps, tube worms, and algae. Because of this, they readily accept most prepared foods in a captive setting. Ours has a particular affinity for large meaty foods and algae, but will attempt to eat anything it can fit in his mouth. He receives a 3×4″ Nori sheet as well as Mysis, Cyclopeeze, Frozen Seafood Blends, Brine, and Pellets 4-6 times a day.
It is not uncommon for these fish to eat within 24 hours of being added to a new system. Ours ate within 5 minutes.
With most Chaetodontids in the reef, there is the risk or coral damage. C. declivis is no exception. Early on he wiped out most of our Zoanthids, including some prized Tub’s Blues. This is the cost of such a beautiful fish. Occasionally we do see him nipping at SPS polyps, but it does not cause damage. Most of the time he picks at slime, and does not touch the actual polyp.
By keeping him well fed and providing entertainment via other fish and Nori, our corals remain unharmed. Like with many Angels, boredom and hunger are the two things that must be overcome with this constantly curious fish.
An ideal system would be:
- 100+ gallons
- 76-78F (Do not exceed 80F)
- Fish only with LR or SPS Reef
- Large Skimmer to handle 4+ feedings a day
- Plenty of dither fish (Anthias, Chromis, Cardinals)
- 2-3 larger fish for social interaction (Butterflies, Angels, Tangs)
Declivis Butterflies, have a personality that is quite difficult to describe. The closest I can compare is to the personable Puffer fish family; puppy like, intelligent, funny, and always wanting attention. Luca can make it quite difficult to take photos of our aquarium.
These fish also seem to lack what one would think is an important survival trait–fear. I have heard stories of these fish swimming right up to divers to “see what’s going on”. Ours is no different. No matter what we are doing in the tank or outside of the tank, Luca is as close to possible.
We hope to have our Declivis Butterfly for many years to come. He is by far the most personable fish I have ever personally kept, or had experience with. If you have the proper system and opportunity to purchase one, we highly encourage it.
