The Arabian Butterflyfish (Chaetodon melapterus), also known as the Blackfin Butterflyfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish in the butterflyfish family Chaetodontidae. It is found in the northwestern Indian Ocean.

Distribution and Habitat

The Arabian Butterflyfish is found in the northwestern Indian Ocean, including the Persian Gulf, the southern coasts of the Arabian Peninsula from the Gulf of Oman to the Gulf of Aden, and the southern part of the Red Sea. It occurs in shallow coastal reefs at depths between 2 and 16 meters and prefers areas with rich coral growth.

Physical Description

The body of the Arabian Butterflyfish is totally bright yellow except for the posterior edge which is black. The dorsal, anal and caudal fins are also deep black. There are three vertical black bands on the face: one on the snout around the mouth, one through the eye, and one just behind the eye. The dorsal fin contains 13 spines and 19-21 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 18-19 soft rays. This species attains a maximum total length of 13 cm (5.1 in).

Diet and Feeding

The Arabian Butterflyfish is an obligate corallivore, feeding exclusively on coral polyps. This specialized diet makes it particularly challenging to maintain in captivity.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species lives in pairs, though there have been occasional records of aggregations. It is an oviparous species which forms pairs to breed.

Aquarium Care

The Arabian Butterflyfish is considered unsuitable for most home aquaria due to its specialized diet of coral polyps. Despite this, it occasionally appears in the trade. It requires a tank of at least 55 gallons with excellent water quality and abundant live coral. It is peaceful toward other fish but its dietary requirements make it recommended for expert aquarists only.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern globally by the IUCN Red List, though it is listed as Vulnerable in the Persian Gulf region.