Butterfly help!

robert829 · Sep 15, 2014

So, yesterday morning, I did it. I finally broke down and got the fish I have wanted since I began my saltwater journey about 6 months ago... an Atlantic Longnose Butterfly (Rosy Butterfly). I just adore him already. He's beautiful, full of personality, and generally just a great addition. His name is "Spike". He and the flame angel tend to chase each other every now and again, but otherwise everyone is getting along great... but I worried I'm about to run into a problem.
So this guy is supposed to be one of the absolute hardiest and most adaptable of all the captive butterflies, but he's not eating. He originally ate Mysis yesterday, but has completely stopped eating. And I have tried EVERYTHING. My nitrates are going to be through the roof, lol. Anyhow, I have tried frozen mysis, frozen brine, frozen squid, frozen carnivore mix, fresh mussels on the half-shell and free floating, freeze dried brine, tubiflex worms, frozen blood worms, chopped fresh shrimp, flakes, pellets, EVERYTHING! Is it possible that this thing will starve himself to death? And does anyone have any other ideas?

Marshall O · Sep 15, 2014

If you just got it yesterday, I think you need to just wait for it to be a bit more comfortable. I would only offer food at most twice per day until it eats. You could try using garlic to help entice it if needed. I have never even tried to feed a new fish in the same day I get it.

Aquaph8 · Sep 15, 2014

My best guess with this particular fish is after he went in your tank he found lots of tastier stuff on the rocks. let him get settled in and continue to just feed your tank like you normally would.