Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfly fish (Chaetodon vagabundus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Indian and Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Polynesia.
Description
The vagabond butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (family Chaetodontidae) of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a deep, white body with a fine crosshatched line pattern, a yellow rear with dark bands and a black band through the eye. It lives on reef flats, lagoon and seaward reefs and sometimes in turbid waters near freshwater runoff, usually swimming in pairs. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, coral polyps, small crustaceans and other reef life. The species is collected for the aquarium trade and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfly fish?
The Butterfly fish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a flame-patterned pattern. Fine criss-cross line pattern and a black eye band; lives in pairs.
Where does the Butterfly fish live?
The Butterfly fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indian and Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Polynesia.
How big does the Butterfly fish get?
The Butterfly fish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Butterfly fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfly fish 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 Butterfly fish edible?
The Butterfly fish is rarely 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 Butterfly fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfly fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.