Buy Wrought Iron Butterflyfish (Chaetodon daedalma) – Ultra-Rare Japanese Marine Beauty

Species Overview

The Wrought Iron Butterflyfish (Chaetodon daedalma) is one of the most striking marine fish available in the luxury aquarium world. Endemic to the temperate waters off Japan’s Izu Peninsula, this species stands out for its iron-gray body, high-contrast white rimmed fins, and metallic iridescence—a true showpiece for serious marine collectors.

• Scientific Name: Chaetodon daedalma

• Origin: Japan (Izu Islands, southern Honshu)

• Habitat Type: Temperate marine reef zones (depths 10–30m)

• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Lifespan: Up to 10 years in captivity

• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive (best kept with non-aggressive species)

Why This Fish is Special

• One of the rarest butterflyfish in the global aquarium trade

• Difficult to source and collect—only legally exported from Japan

• Sought after for its metallic shimmer and elegance

• Ideal for display tanks, designer aquariums, or aquascaped reef systems

Available Sizes

• Juvenile: 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)

• Sub-Adult: 4–5 inches (10–12.5 cm)

• Adult: 6 inches (15 cm) – Limited Quantity

Ethical Sourcing & Certification

• Sourced directly from licensed Japanese exporters

• Compliant with all international marine wildlife regulations

• Undergoes full quarantine, acclimatization, and disease screening

• Export paperwork and documentation provided for customs clearance

• Shipped only where legally permitted

Care & Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons (450 liters)

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–76°F (22–24°C)

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

• Diet:

  • Frozen mysis shrimp, marine pellets, seaweed sheets, and sponge-based marine foods

• Compatibility:

  • Best with peaceful tank mates

  • Avoid aggressive tangs or large predatory fish

• Reef Safe: With caution – may nip at LPS or soft corals

Shipping & Packaging Details

• Ships From:

  • Asia-Pacific Orders: Singapore Hub

  • North America Orders: Los Angeles Hub

  • Europe Orders: Rotterdam Hub

• Shipping Methods:

  • International Air Cargo (Premium)

  • FedEx/UPS Express (1–2 Days)

  • In-house courier available in select cities

• Packaging Includes:

  • Double oxygen-sealed bags

  • Ammonia neutralizers & stress relief additives

  • Thermal control with cold/heat packs

  • Labeled: Live Aquatic Animal – Handle with Care

Live Arrival Guarantee

• Valid on first delivery attempt only

• Requires unboxing video within 1 hour of delivery

• Compensation via store credit or replacement (species availability dependent)

• No returns due to legal/ethical restrictions on live animals

Specifications Table