Fin's Fish Guide
The Four-banded butterflyfish (Chaetodon hoefleri) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
Description
The four-banded butterflyfish is a deep, disc-shaped reef fish of the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes) reaching about 27 cm. The strongly compressed, yellow-white body bears several oblique dark bands and a black band running through the eye - a false face that misleads predators. The small, projecting snout-mouth is suited to picking small prey from rock crevices. The species lives near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf along the West African coast, often in pairs or small groups. It feeds on small invertebrates, worms and reef growth. It is the most common butterflyfish of the West African coast.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Four-banded butterflyfish?
The Four-banded butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Deep-bodied, disc-shaped butterflyfish with yellowish-brown oblique bands and a black eye band; small snout-like mouth for picking at prey. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Four-banded butterflyfish live?
The Four-banded butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
How big does the Four-banded butterflyfish get?
The Four-banded butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm. On average the species is around 17 cm.
Is the Four-banded butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Four-banded butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Four-banded butterflyfish edible?
The Four-banded butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Four-banded butterflyfish and live in the same waters.
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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 Four-banded butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Four-banded butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.