Fin's Fish Guide
The Dot and dash butterflyfish (Chaetodon pelewensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The dot-and-dash butterflyfish is a small butterflyfish from the western and central Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a white to yellowish, disc-shaped body with diagonal rows of dark dots and dashes and a yellow-orange rear body with a dark eye band. It lives on coral-rich reefs to about 30 metres depth and feeds on coral polyps and small invertebrates. It usually lives in pairs. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dot and dash butterflyfish?
The Dot and dash butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Oblique rows of spots and streaks; usually lives in pairs
Where does the Dot and dash butterflyfish live?
The Dot and dash butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western and central Pacific
How big does the Dot and dash butterflyfish get?
The Dot and dash butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Dot and dash butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dot and dash butterflyfish 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 Dot and dash butterflyfish edible?
The Dot and dash butterflyfish 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 Dot and dash butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dot and dash butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.