Klein Butterflyfish 

Also known as Klein’s Butterflyfish, Sunburst Butterflyfish

The Klein Butterflyfish is a beautiful and relatively hardy species displaying white coloration with distinctive vertical black bars and bright yellow accents. This peaceful butterflyfish is more adaptable to aquarium life than many species, making it an excellent choice for butterflyfish enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon kleinii
• Common Names: Klein Butterflyfish, Klein’s Butterflyfish, Sunburst Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; can be kept in pairs
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; one of the hardier butterflyfish species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock arranged to create territories and hiding spots. This active species needs open areas for cruising throughout the aquarium. Benefits from established systems.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain the stable conditions this species prefers.

Diet & Feeding

Klein Butterflyfish are omnivores with varied dietary needs. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, krill, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae (beneficial supplement)
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (helpful during initial acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily; one of the easier butterflyfish to feed

Notes & Considerations

• Among the hardier and more adaptable butterflyfish species for aquarium life.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates; less territorial than many butterflyfish.
• Can be successfully kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously.
• May occasionally nip at soft corals and tube worms but less problematic than many species.
• Active swimmer that adds elegant movement throughout the aquarium.
• Distinctive black bars and yellow highlights create attractive contrast.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Does well in peaceful community tanks with similar-sized fish.
• More forgiving of water quality fluctuations than sensitive butterflyfish species.
• Often available and more affordable than rare butterflyfish species.
• Good choice for aquarists wanting to keep their first butterflyfish.

Why Choose a Quarantined Klein Butterflyfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this attractive and adaptable species.