Can I mix different types of Butterflyfish in one tank?

[reefmusic]

I have set up a fish only tank so I can keep fish that I can't put in my reef tank.

Can I keep several different types of butterflyfish, one of each species, in the same tank?

Same question, I guess, for Angelfish, although I think I read this is risky.

 

[rholguin]

Imo. Depending in the size of the tank and the species you want. It can be done.

 

[SDguy]

Yes, depends on the species. Generally, similar looking ones can be aggressive with each other, and some are notoriously mean to all other butterflies.

 

[reefmusic]

Good, thanks. So are there any guides as to which are good tankmates, or should I just pick ones from different types, e.g. one Chaetodon, one Chelmon, one Forcipiger etc, or can I mix multiple Chaetodons, for example, provided they look quite different?

Oh, and which are the mean ones (so I can avoid them) ?

 

[michael_cb_125]

I have kept multiple butterflies in the same systems without any issues, but as Peter mentioned there are many variables that determine whether success is likely or not.

Post a couple species that you are interested in and it will be easier to help.


~Michael

 

[SDguy]

I agree with Michael, maybe post some that you are interested in, to narrow down the field.

WetWebMedia, while somewhat old, still has a great breakdown of easy, moderate, and difficult to care for butterflies. I suggest starting there:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/BFsBestWrst.htm

 

[reefmusic]

I agree with Michael, maybe post some that you are interested in, to narrow down the field.

WetWebMedia, while somewhat old, still has a great breakdown of easy, moderate, and difficult to care for butterflies. I suggest starting there:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/BFsBestWrst.htm

That's a good link. First thoughts on the ones I like are ...

Chaetodon auriga - Threadfin, or
Chaetodon melannotus - Black-backed
Chaetodon fremblii - Blue Lined
Chaetodon ephippium - SaddleBack
Chaetodon ulietensis - Double SaddleBack
Chaetodon lunula - Racoon
Chaetodon rafflesi - Latticed

and also
Heniochus acuminatus - Bannerfish
Forcipiger flavissimus - Longnose

Only looking at only a few of these in the one tank - but the actual types depends on what is available in the shops. Do any stand out as bad tankmates?