Fin's Fish Guide
The Big longnose butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The longnose butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a yellow body with a dark upper head and a very long, thin, tubular snout - the longest of all butterflyfishes - with which it can reach deep into crevices and among coral branches. It inhabits seaward reefs to deeper than 60 m. With its tweezer-like snout it selectively picks small crustaceans, especially shrimps, and other invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Big longnose butterflyfish?
The Big longnose butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Longest snout of all coral butterflyfishes; uses it to pick small shrimps precisely from reef crevices.
Where does the Big longnose butterflyfish live?
The Big longnose butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; seaward reefs.
How big does the Big longnose butterflyfish get?
The Big longnose butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Big longnose butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Big longnose butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Big longnose butterflyfish edible?
The Big longnose 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 Forcipiger
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Big longnose butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Big longnose butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.