Fin's Fish Guide
The Burgess's butterflyfish (Chaetodon burgessi) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Oceania: Indonesia, Malaysia, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
Description
The Burgess's butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, disc-shaped body with a small, pointed mouth. The white body bears broad oblique black bands and a yellow tail; it lives on deeper reefs. As a reef-dweller it searches coral and rocky reefs for coral polyps, small invertebrates and algae; many species live in pairs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Burgess's butterflyfish?
The Burgess's butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Burgess's butterflyfish live?
The Burgess's butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Indonesia, Malaysia, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
How big does the Burgess's butterflyfish get?
The Burgess's butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Burgess's butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Burgess's 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 Burgess's butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Burgess's 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 Burgess's butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Burgess's butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.