Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackwedged butterflyfish (Chaetodon falcula) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The blackwedged butterflyfish is a handsome butterflyfish from the Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a white body with fine dark vertical lines, two conspicuous black saddle blotches on the back, a yellow tail region and a black eye band. As a reef-dweller it searches in pairs among coral for polyps, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackwedged butterflyfish?
The Blackwedged butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Two black saddle blotches and a yellow tail; reef butterflyfish in pairs
Where does the Blackwedged butterflyfish live?
The Blackwedged butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indian Ocean
How big does the Blackwedged butterflyfish get?
The Blackwedged butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Blackwedged butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackwedged 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 Blackwedged butterflyfish edible?
The Blackwedged 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 Blackwedged butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackwedged butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.