Fin's Fish Guide
The Baroness butterflyfish (Chaetodon baronessa) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The eastern triangular butterflyfish is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, triangular body with a pattern of narrow, V-shaped (chevron) lines and a dark face. It occurs on lagoon and seaward reefs. It is a specialised coral eater (corallivore) that feeds almost exclusively on the polyps of branching stony corals, especially Acropora. Pairs defend a territory around their coral food source. Owing to its coral diet the species is difficult to keep in the aquarium. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Baroness butterflyfish?
The Baroness butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a flame-patterned pattern. V-shaped (chevron) lines; specialised coral eater that defends pair territories around Acropora.
Where does the Baroness butterflyfish live?
The Baroness butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; lagoon and seaward coral reefs.
How big does the Baroness butterflyfish get?
The Baroness butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Baroness butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Baroness butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Baroness butterflyfish edible?
The Baroness 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 Chaetodon
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Baroness butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Baroness butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.