Fin's Fish Guide
The Four-spot butterfly (Chaetodon quadrimaculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The fourspot butterflyfish is a butterflyfish of the Pacific, ranging from the Ryukyu Islands and Taiwan to Hawaii, the Marquesas and Pitcairn. It grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body with four conspicuous dark spots, two on each side. It lives almost exclusively on exposed seaward reefs, usually between 2 and 15 metres depth, and feeds mainly on the polyps of Pocillopora corals. The fish forms monogamous pairs. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Four-spot butterfly?
The Four-spot butterfly has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Four dark blotches on the flanks; monogamous pair-forming
Where does the Four-spot butterfly live?
The Four-spot butterfly lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Pacific Ocean
How big does the Four-spot butterfly get?
The Four-spot butterfly grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Four-spot butterfly dangerous to humans?
No, the Four-spot butterfly 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 Four-spot butterfly edible?
The Four-spot 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 Four-spot butterfly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Four-spot butterfly is one of 12,519 species in the app.