Fin's Fish Guide
The Citron butterfly (Chaetodon citrinellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The speckled butterflyfish is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a pale-yellow to lemon, disc-shaped body densely covered with fine dark spots, with a dark band over the eye and a dark margin along the anal fin. It is common on shallow, exposed reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs, in relatively open areas with scattered corals. As an omnivore it feeds on coral polyps, small invertebrates and algae. Butterflyfishes often live in pairs. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Citron butterfly?
The Citron butterfly has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Lemon-coloured body densely scattered with fine dark spots; eye band and beak-shaped snout.
Where does the Citron butterfly live?
The Citron butterfly lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; shallow reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Citron butterfly get?
The Citron butterfly grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Citron butterfly dangerous to humans?
No, the Citron butterfly is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Citron butterfly edible?
The Citron butterfly 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 Citron butterfly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Citron butterfly is one of 12,519 species in the app.