Fin's Fish Guide
The Atoll butterflyfish (Chaetodon mertensii) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Sri Lanka, Easter I., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cook Is. and others
Description
The atoll butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a white body with fine, upward-pointing V-shaped lines (chevrons), a yellow to orange rear margin and a dark band through the eye. As a reef-dweller it lives on clear coral and rocky reefs and picks small invertebrates, coral polyps and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atoll butterflyfish?
The Atoll butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly white.
Where does the Atoll butterflyfish live?
The Atoll butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Sri Lanka, Easter I., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cook Is. and others
How big does the Atoll butterflyfish get?
The Atoll butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Atoll butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atoll butterflyfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Atoll butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Atoll butterflyfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Atoll butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atoll butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.