Rainfordi Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rainfordi)

About the Rainfordi Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rainfordi)

The Rainfordi Butterflyfish, also known as Rainford's Butterflyfish, is a rare and stunning Australian endemic species featuring a unique color pattern of diagonal orange-yellow stripes on a white to pale grey body, with distinctive blue-grey chevron markings. This small, elegant butterflyfish is found exclusively in the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef region, making it one of the most sought-after and collectible butterflyfish species. The Rainfordi is considered one of the more reef-safe butterflyfish options and is prized for its beauty, rarity, and relatively small size.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 300 litres (75 gallons), preferably 450+ litres for long-term success
• Diet: Omnivorous - requires varied diet including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, marine algae, coral polyps (in the wild), and quality frozen preparations
• Water Parameters: Temperature 23-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025
• Swimming Space: Moderately active, requires rockwork and open swimming areas
• Experience Level: Advanced - rare species requiring stable conditions, proper diet, and experienced care

Tank Compatibility

Generally peaceful and can be kept with most peaceful fish including tangs, wrasses, and peaceful angelfish. May be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously. REEF-SAFE WITH CAUTION - while considered one of the more reef-safe butterflyfish, individual specimens may occasionally nip at coral polyps, particularly soft corals and LPS. Many Rainfordi Butterflyfish are well-behaved in reef aquariums, but monitoring is recommended. Generally safer than most other butterflyfish species.

Fun Facts

• Endemic to Australia - found only in the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef
• One of the rarest and most expensive butterflyfish in the aquarium trade
• Named after Australian ichthyologist Hector Rainford
• Smaller than most butterflyfish, typically reaching only 12-15cm
• Collection is strictly regulated due to limited range and conservation concerns
• Considered one of the most reef-safe butterflyfish species available
• The diagonal stripe pattern is unique among butterflyfish
• Highly prized by Australian aquarists and collectors worldwide

Special Care Tips

• Rare Australian Endemic: This is a premium, investment-grade specimen from limited Australian waters
• Feeding: Feed 2-3 times daily with varied meaty foods - may require live foods initially
• Acclimation: Extended drip acclimation (90+ minutes) is critical - can be sensitive to parameter changes
• Diet Transition: May be finicky eaters initially - offer variety and be patient during adjustment
• Reef Monitoring: If keeping in reef tank, monitor for any nipping behavior, though most are well-behaved
• Established Tank: Best added to mature, stable aquarium (6+ months) with natural food sources
• Water Quality: Maintain pristine conditions - butterflyfish are sensitive to parameter swings
• Limited Availability: Extremely rare in the trade - a true collector's specimen

Please be aware that variations exist within species, so your item may not precisely resemble the provided image. The size range of individual specimens is approximate and may vary. Any extraordinary fish size will be explicitly specified.