Care
The Threadfin Butterflyfish is known from coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, to depths of 60m (197ft), where it may be observed feeding on coral polyps, polychaetes, sea anemones, and algae. This is a relatively hardy species which is moderately aggressive. As the natural diet consists of various invertebrates, this is a species best maintained in a mature fish-only set up that contains plenty of live rock. They are best kept singly, so that territorial aggression is avoided. Tankmates should be of similar size and temperament, and these can include other robust butterflyfish of different genera that differ markedly in appearance to this species. The tank should contain an abundance of rockwork for the fish to hide amongst, with an open swimming area along the front of the aquarium. As with all butterflyfishes, this species demands excellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, with areas of brisk current. This species belongs to the large sub-genus Rabdophorus, which may eventually be recognised as a distinct genus. The very close relative, the Indian Vagabond Butterflyfish (C. decussatus), and the similar-looking Vagabond Butterflyfish (C. vagabundus) form a complex with C. auriga. These three species share the same characteristic pattern of two areas of ascending and descending oblique lines; however, they are easy to tell apart as the posterior portion of their bodies differ markedly in colouration. There are two geographical subspecies of C. auriga: the form which occurs outside of the Red Sea, known as C. auriga setifer, sports a prominent black dorsal ocellus, with the form from the Red Sea (known as C. auriga auriga) lacking this eyespot. May also be seen on sale as the Auriga Butterflyfish.
Feeding
Feed small amounts several times per day, and be sure to offer a good variety of different foods. Frozen fare such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped clam/ mussel/ cockle/ crab/ shrimp/ squid etc. can be proffered, but - most importantly "“ do ensure that the larger foodstuffs are chopped into small enough pieces on account of butterflyfish having tiny mouths. A vegetable component, such as Nori and spirulina-enriched brineshrimp will also be appreciated.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in captivity. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs and scatter their eggs in open water.
