Four Eye Butterflyfish
Chaetodon capistratus
Also known as: 4 Eye Butterflyfish, Butterbun, Four-eye Butterflyfish, Foureye Butterflyfish, Four-eyed Butterflyfish
A Caribbean reef classic that often mates for life.
About
The four eye butterflyfish (Chaetodon capistratus) is one of the most recognizable fish along Caribbean and Atlantic reefs, ranging from the waters off Massachusetts and Bermuda down through the West Indies and into northern South America. Its common name comes from the bold false eyespot near the tail, which contrasts with the real eye hidden behind a dark vertical bar through the face. A classic predator-confusion trick that makes the fish appear to be heading in the opposite direction. The body is pale yellowish-white overlaid with fine diagonal lines that create a chevron pattern across the flanks. In the wild, adults tend to cruise shallow reef areas alone or in bonded pairs, and pairs often stay together long-term, which is a genuinely endearing trait for a reef fish. Their natural diet leans heavily on zoantharians, polychaete worms, gorgonians, and tunicates, which does present the biggest challenge for aquarium keeping. Getting them to accept prepared or frozen foods reliably. They are calm, approachable fish that don't pose any threat to tankmates, and their care level is considered manageable for keepers who can meet their dietary needs. A well-run fish-only or FOWLR setup suits them well.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Four Eye Butterflyfish get?
- The Four Eye Butterflyfish reaches about 3–4" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Four Eye Butterflyfish need?
- A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for the Four Eye Butterflyfish.
- What water parameters does the Four Eye Butterflyfish need?
- The Four Eye Butterflyfish does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Four Eye Butterflyfish aggressive?
- The Four Eye Butterflyfish is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.
- What does the Four Eye Butterflyfish eat?
- The Four Eye Butterflyfish is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Four Eye Butterflyfish live?
- With good care, the Four Eye Butterflyfish typically lives 3-5 years.
- Is the Four Eye Butterflyfish reef safe?
- The Four Eye Butterflyfish is not considered reliably reef safe and may harm corals or invertebrates.