Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterbun (Chaetodon sedentarius) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The reef butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a white to yellowish body with a yellow back and a dark band running across the rear of the body and the tail base. It inhabits coral reefs, where it usually lives in pairs. It preferentially eats the eggs of the sergeant major Abudefduf saxatilis, but also polychaete worms, shrimps, amphipods and hydroids. The species forms pairs during breeding and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterbun?
The Butterbun has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Prefers to eat the eggs of the sergeant major; lives in pairs on Atlantic coral reefs. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Butterbun live?
The Butterbun lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; coral reefs.
How big does the Butterbun get?
The Butterbun grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Butterbun dangerous to humans?
The Butterbun is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Butterbun edible?
The Butterbun is not usually eaten.
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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
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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.