Pearlscale Butterflyfish 

Also known as Xanthurus Butterflyfish, Philippine Chevron Butterflyfish

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish is an elegant and moderately hardy species displaying a pearly-scaled appearance with distinctive chevron patterns and yellow accents. This attractive butterflyfish is more adaptable to aquarium life than many relatives, making it suitable for dedicated marine aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon xanthurus
• Common Names: Pearlscale Butterflyfish, Crosshatch Butterflyfish, Philippines Butterflyfish
• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and relatively shy
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; requires attention to diet and water quality

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock arranged to create shelter and territories. This species appreciates peaceful environments with minimal stress. Benefits from established tanks.
• 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 stable conditions for this species.

Diet & Feeding 

Pearlscale Butterflyfish are omnivores requiring varied nutrition. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae (beneficial supplement)
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally adapts to prepared foods with patience

Notes & Considerations

• Distinctive pearlescent scales create unique shimmer under aquarium lighting.
• More adaptable to captive conditions than obligate coral feeders.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates but may be territorial toward other butterflyfish.
• May nip at soft corals, zoanthids, and tube worms; monitor in reef settings.
• Relatively shy; does best in peaceful community tanks without aggressive species.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Active during the day; retreats to rockwork at night.
• Can be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously to reduce aggression.
• Philippine origin; moderately available in the aquarium trade.
• Elegant appearance makes it a prized addition to appropriate aquariums.

Why Choose a Quarantined Pearlscale 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 elegant and attractive species.