Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Tilodon sexfasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Kyphosidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; rocky reefs and estuaries.
Description
The moonlighter is a fish of the sea chub family (Kyphosidae) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, silvery-white body with six narrow dark crossbars and yellow tints on the fins. Adults live on offshore rocky reefs, while juveniles occur in estuaries and shallow sheltered coves. It feeds on small invertebrates, algae and growth from the reef. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfish?
The Butterfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Six narrow dark vertical bars on a silvery-white body; reef and estuary dweller.
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; rocky reefs and estuaries.
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Butterfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Butterfish edible?
The Butterfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Kyphosidae
Want the complete picture on the Butterfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.