Saddleback Butterflyfish 

Also known as Falcula Butterflyfish, Blackwedged Butterflyfish

The Saddleback Butterflyfish is a striking and distinctive species displaying a bold black “saddle” marking across its white body with yellow accents. This moderately hardy butterflyfish is more adaptable than many species and makes an impressive addition to appropriate marine aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon ephippium
• Common Names: Saddleback Butterflyfish, Falcula Butterflyfish, Indian Saddleback
• Adult Size: Up to 8 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; often found in pairs
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate; easier than many butterflyfish species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample swimming space with live rock arranged to create territories and hiding places. This active species needs open areas for cruising. Benefits from established aquariums with stable conditions.
• 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 environment this species prefers.

Diet & Feeding

Saddleback 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, krill, marine cuisine
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, blackworms (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally adapts to prepared foods more readily than coral-feeding species

Notes & Considerations

• Distinctive black saddle marking creates a bold, eye-catching appearance.
• More adaptable to aquarium life than obligate coral feeders.
• Often found in pairs in the wild; can be kept as pairs if introduced simultaneously.
• Generally peaceful toward non-butterflyfish tankmates.
• May nip at soft corals, anemones, and tube worms; monitor in reef aquariums.
• Active swimmer that adds elegant movement throughout the tank.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; can jump if startled.
• Does well in peaceful community tanks with similar-sized fish.
• May be territorial toward other butterflyfish; provide adequate space.
• Indian Ocean origin; moderately available in the trade.

Why Choose a Quarantined Saddleback 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 striking and relatively adaptable species.