Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown butterflyfish (Chaetodon blackburnii) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Africa: Bassas da India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion I. and others
Description
Blackburn's butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the western Indian Ocean, off East Africa and Madagascar. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a deep, grey-brown body with fine diagonal lines, a yellow tail and a dark band through the eye. As a reef-dweller it often lives in pairs on coral and rocky reefs and picks coral polyps, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown butterflyfish?
The Brown butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Brown butterflyfish live?
The Brown butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Bassas da India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion I. and others
How big does the Brown butterflyfish get?
The Brown butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Brown butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown 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 Brown butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Brown butterflyfish is commonly 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 Brown butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.