Fin's Fish Guide
The Bank butterflyfish (Prognathodes aya) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The bank butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a deep, whitish body with yellow tints and two broad, oblique dark bands, including a band through the eye. It inhabits deep offshore reefs and is rarely seen by divers. With its somewhat elongated snout it picks small invertebrates from crevices of the reef. It is oviparous and forms pairs during breeding. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bank butterflyfish?
The Bank butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Two broad oblique dark bars; deep offshore reef fish, rarely seen by divers.
Where does the Bank butterflyfish live?
The Bank butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; deep offshore reefs.
How big does the Bank butterflyfish get?
The Bank butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Bank butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bank butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bank butterflyfish edible?
The Bank butterflyfish 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 Prognathodes
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Bank butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bank butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.