Quick question on butterflys

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Swimzebras

Aquarium Advice FINatic
Joined
Jan 29, 2011
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I was just wondering if a raccoon butterfly could ever work in a 45 gallon tank? If not would any other easyish butterflys work?
 
I don't plan on a reef if I do get one by the way, although I suppose that was obvious..
 
I wouldn't. They need a tank much larger than 50 gallons. Healthy specimens get to be about 8". That wouldn't mix well with a 45G aquarium. If you really wanted one, i would say 60 gallons is your absolute minimum. Plus, they can be a little hard to feed at first, and being stressed by a small tank will only work against you getting it to eat.

Sorry, but i would consider a different fish. Just my opinion though.
 
Double saddle butterfly? They stay smaller I read, around 6 inches
 
Yeah, i would go with one of those rather then the raccoon. Definitely.
 
Yes for second best!!! Thanks a bunch for the help and quick response
 
No problem. Let us know if you have anymore questions. And let us know when you get the fish. :)
 
Sure thing....and you don't happen to know if coral catfish would also be too big? I'm assuming they would but thought I'd check....
 
Spines are extremely poisonous and it grows to be about 13". I would skip that if i were you lol.

AND is a sand sifter. So unless you have a live sandbed to support its feeding habits, and a large one at that, i would again, pick a different fish lol.
 
Yikes! You had me at poisonous spines!  but what would you suggest as a heavy sand sifter? I'm lacking one on my list of fishies..
 
I think they make great additions to saltwater aquariums. Most of them are very nice fish. Some amazing colors on them. They are still a hit or miss when it comes to reefs though. But since you aren't doing a reef tank, i think a Pygmy Angel would make a great addition. Just be sure not to go overboard with the fish. ;) 45G's is a decent number, but it's not a huge tank. Just keep bioload in mind and space for the fish.
 
True, but I've thought about it and plan to have a large CUC and around 90 lbs of LR......so we'll see how it goes from here! I suppose I should start a build thread....
 
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