Falcula Butterflyfish (Chaetodon falcula)
The Falcula Butterflyfish is a striking Indian Ocean butterflyfish with a bright white body, yellow dorsal and rear fin areas, fine vertical striping and two bold black wedge-shaped markings across the upper body. Also known as the Blackwedged Butterflyfish or Saddleback Butterflyfish, it is an elegant and active marine fish best suited to a spacious, mature fish-only or FOWLR-style aquarium. Although beautiful, it is not considered reliably reef safe, as its natural diet includes coral polyps and other reef invertebrates.
Common Name
Falcula Butterflyfish. Also commonly referred to as the Blackwedged Butterflyfish, Saddleback Butterflyfish, Black-wedged Butterflyfish or Falcula Butterfly.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chaetodon falcula |
| Common Names | Blackwedged Butterflyfish, Saddleback Butterflyfish |
| Habitat | Indian Ocean |
| Behavior | Active, social |
| Reef Safety | Not reliably reef safe |
| Best Tank Type | Spacious fish-only or FOWLR |
FAQ
Is the Falcula Butterflyfish safe to keep with coral in a reef tank?
No, the Falcula Butterflyfish is not reliably reef safe as it naturally feeds on coral polyps and other invertebrates.
What are the typical water conditions required for this fish?
Please contact customer service
How big does the Falcula Butterflyfish grow in captivity?
Please contact customer service
Pippa Mackay –
The Falcula Butterflyfish is a beautiful addition to a well-established marine tank. Its vibrant coloration and active behavior make it a highlight. I’ve kept it in a 120-gallon fish-only setup for over a year and it remains healthy and curious. Just make sure there are no corals or invertebrates in the tank.
Madeleine Howard –
This fish is stunning in appearance. The black wedge markings stand out clearly against the white body. It’s active and enjoys exploring the tank. I recommend it only for experienced aquarists with a mature, coral-free setup.
Dominic Paige –
It looks great and is quite active, but I noticed it occasionally nips at a piece of live rock. I had to remove a small coral after a few weeks. Not suitable for reef tanks, but a nice fish for a fish-only system.