Butterflyfish - Chaetodontidae

Some of the most colourful and graceful of all tropical fishes, the Butterflyfish family encompasses some of the reefs most famous inhabitants. 

Many species pair for life and are seen swimming together in perfect synchronisation. They spend much of their time flitting over shallow coral reefs, showing off their vibrant markings and incredible patterns.

These shy fish will only normally allow a close look at their dazzling livery if you approach slowly and quietly.

Butterflyfish identification

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Did You Know?
Butterflyfish are a good indicator species of the health of a reef.

A healthy reef will have many Butterflyfish, while one that is suffering may see a rapid decline in numbers.

Family variety

Butterflyfish are a large family, with over 100 species. Markings, patterns and fin shape can vary greatly between species, but overall body shape, colouration and behaviour are usually similar across the family.

Behaviour

Butterflyfish are benthic, living on coral reefs. Depending on the species they either swim in pairs close to the reef or in schools over the reef - forming constantly moving colourful clouds.

They tend to be wary and often change direction suddenly, resulting in a skittish swimming styleand are quick to seek shelter when threatened.

Reproduction

Many species pair for life and spend the majority of time with their partners. They are known to gather in large schools in mating season, rising together above the reef and releasing eggs and sperm mid water.

Diet

Many Butterflyfish feed on coral polyps or algae, while some species are plankton feeders, relying on the tiny microscopic creatures living in the water.

Defences

Many of the butterflyfishes' characteristic stripes and markings are designed to provide camouflage and confuse predators into attacking their tail end rather than their head. They are also very agile & fast swimmers, helping them to escape quickly. Their small size also allows them to hide in small cracks & crevices out of the reach of larger predators.

FACTFILE


speciesSPECIES:   >100


sizeSIZE RANGE:   12-30 cm


distributionDISTRIBUTION:

Found throughout tropical waters. 


habitatHABITAT:

Shallow healthy reefs. Some plankton feeding species prefer mid-water in current.


threatsTHREATS:

Greatest threat is loss of habitat.

Identification tips

  • Butterflyfish have very thin disk shaped bodies that very little drag when swimming through the water.

  • Many Butterflyfish have a false eye spot near their tail to confuse predators.

  • Butterflyfish usually have a dark stripe through their eye to disguise their heads.

  • Many species have a streamer like extension to the dorsal fin.

  • Butterflyfish are very colourful with a wide variety of patterns and markings. Many species use a combination of yellow, black and white stripes.



Where to find

Bohol

The island of Bohol lies just to the east of Cebu in the Viasayas region of the Philippines and is a popular island for tourists. 

The area's diving is also a major attraction, with great macro life, plentiful turtles and lovely coral reefs. Good diving options are available on the west coast, and also the quieter south-east region of Anda.

Phuket & Phi Phi Islands

Diving in Phuket has always been hugely popular due to its ease of access and choice of dive centres. It is one of Thailand's top tourist spots.

Phi Phi Island is equally popular. Actually two main islands - Don and Lae - they are truly spectacular with limestone cliffs rising into the sky.

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is the home of the Komodo Dragon - and also some of the best diving in Indonesia.

It is a popular liveaboard diving destination.

The national park comprises of two main islands, Komodo Island and Rinca Island, along with numerous smaller islets. These current swept islands of Komodo are home to a huge amount of diversity, wonderful coral reefs, a profusion of marine life and no shortage of pelagic action.

Other fascinating species...