Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded butterfly (Chaetodon striatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The banded butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (family Chaetodontidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed, white body with a few conspicuous black crossbands and a black band through the eye. It lives on coral reefs, alone or in pairs, and is usually monogamous. With its small, beak-like mouth it picks polychaete worms, coral polyps, small crustaceans and mollusc eggs. The species is collected for the aquarium trade and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded butterfly?
The Banded butterfly has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Black vertical bars and an eye band; monogamous, often lives in pairs.
Where does the Banded butterfly live?
The Banded butterfly lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, from the USA to Brazil.
How big does the Banded butterfly get?
The Banded butterfly grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Banded butterfly dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded butterfly 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 Banded butterfly edible?
The Banded 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 Banded butterfly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded butterfly is one of 12,519 species in the app.