Fin's Fish Guide
The Acropora butterfly (Chaetodon trifascialis) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The chevron butterflyfish is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a pale body with a dense pattern of fine, V-shaped (chevron) lines and a black-and-yellow marked tail. It is a strongly territorial species of shallow lagoons and semi-protected reefs. It is a specialised coral eater that feeds almost exclusively on the polyps and mucus of table corals (Acropora) and fiercely defends its territory against conspecifics. Owing to threats to its coral habitat the species is listed as Near Threatened (NT). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Acropora butterfly?
The Acropora butterfly has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a flame-patterned pattern. Dense chevron line pattern; specialised, fiercely territorial coral eater, near threatened (NT).
Where does the Acropora butterfly live?
The Acropora butterfly lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; shallow lagoons and semi-sheltered coral reefs.
How big does the Acropora butterfly get?
The Acropora butterfly grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Acropora butterfly dangerous to humans?
No, the Acropora butterfly is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Acropora butterfly edible?
The Acropora butterfly is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chaetodon
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Acropora butterfly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Acropora butterfly is one of 12,519 species in the app.