Mitratus butterfly

[AquaKnight]

Well, they might not be exactly reef safe, hoping to keep some stuff with them (gorgonians preferrably). Anyways, what's the scoop on the guys?

Assuming the standard stuff, very similar to a Tinker's, Declivis, or Burgress butterfly, though perhaps the most expensive/rare? Any period/season when these guys are more often available? Do they even make it into the US?

 

[michael_cb_125]

I have seen them for sale a few times. They are really no more pricey than the Declivis and Burgess. Th ones I have seen have been anywhere from $300.00-$450.00

Very nice looking Butterflies though. Are you going to do a deepwater reef?

 

[AquaKnight]

No, not a full deepwater reef, aiming maybe for a 'cooler' mixed reef. Hoping in the 74°-76°F range, will be good enough to keep a variety of things and tag on the Mitratus and a BlackCap Basslet.

 

[myerst2]

I would disagree, Tinker's are the rarer of the tinkeri complex. Shoot me a PM and I can lead you in the right direction. Tim

 

[dflad]

My understanding is that these are the most aggressive of the complex and can be quite mean.

 

[michael_cb_125]

Look What I found!
http://www.liveaquaria.com/diversden/ItemDisplay.cfm?c=2733+3&ddid=47877

~Michael

 

[AuroraDrvr]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13378527#post13378527 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by myerst2
I would disagree, Tinker's are the rarer of the tinkeri complex.

Could he mean rarest as is rarest to the marine aquarium trade?

 

[Chooch1]

I kept a C. mitratus in a fish only system some years ago. Great fish with personality. The best butterfly I ever kept. It was very hardy, peaceful and great eater. The deeper water butterflies are less finicky about food and are very adpatable if collected and handled properly. I had it for about 3 years but sold it to an LFS when I converted my 180 gal tank to a reef in 1998. I considered keeping it but didn't want to take the risk. I sometimes regret that decision because they are reputed to be somewhat reef safe, although I have heard that they will go after gorgonians and LPS. I paid $70.00 for the fish. It was marked down from an original price of $240.00 because it didn't sell. If you do obtain one, please report back on how reef friendly it is. Good luck.