Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterbun (Chaetodon capistratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The foureye butterflyfish (Chaetodon capistratus) is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, pale body with fine, diagonally running lines and a large, black-rimmed eyespot near the tail base, plus a dark band over the real eye. This false eyespot misleads predators about the direction in which the fish will flee. It lives on shallow reefs, usually singly or in pairs, and feeds on zoantharians, polychaete worms, gorgonians and tunicates. During breeding the species forms pairs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterbun?
The Butterbun has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Large false eyespot near the tail that misleads predators; a dark band across the real eye. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution 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. Shallow coral reefs of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
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. The fish is harmless to handle. There are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating it; in case of tingling, nausea, vomiting or reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help.
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.