Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterbun (Chaetodon ocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The spotfin butterflyfish (Chaetodon ocellatus) is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species has a tall, laterally compressed, white-yellow body with a dark band over the eye, yellow fins and a black spot at the edge of the dorsal fin, and reaches about 20 cm. At night it develops dark cross-bands. It inhabits clear, shallow coral reefs and feeds on polychaete worms, small invertebrates and coral polyps. The species is oviparous and forms pairs during breeding. With its snout-like mouth it can pick prey from narrow crevices.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterbun?
The Butterbun has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Dark eye band and a black blotch on the dorsal fin; develops dark vertical bars at night.
Where does the Butterbun live?
The Butterbun lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Shallow coral reefs of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
How big does the Butterbun get?
The Butterbun grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Butterbun dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterbun 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 Butterbun edible?
The Butterbun 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 Butterbun?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterbun is one of 12,519 species in the app.