Teardrop Butterflyfish

Teardrop Butterflyfish (Chaetodon unimaculatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is not reef-safe, admired for its bright yellow body, bold black eye stripe, and the distinctive teardrop-shaped black spot on its upper side, which gives the species its name. Males typically may show slightly more vivid coloration and territorial behavior during breeding, while females/juveniles are slightly smaller and have more subdued markings. They reach about 7 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 100 gallons.

Provide ample live rock for grazing, hiding spaces, and wide open swimming areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat. Maintain stable water parameters with salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH around 8.1–8.4. A tight-fitting, secure lid is recommended, as Teardrop Butterflyfish can jump when startled or stressed.

Diet should consist of a variety of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, marine pellets, and algae-based foods. In the wild, this species feeds on coral polyps and invertebrates, making it unsuitable for reef tanks. However, in a fish-only or FOWLR (Fish-Only with Live Rock) system, the Teardrop Butterflyfish is a striking, active, and rewarding addition with proper care and attention.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.