Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese butterflyfish (Chaetodon nippon) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (North), Korea (South), Philippines and others
Description
The Japanese butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from temperate reef waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, brown-yellow body with dark rear fins and a blotch. Unlike many tropical butterflyfishes it tolerates cooler water. As a reef-dweller it lives on rocky and coral reefs and picks small invertebrates, algae and zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese butterflyfish?
The Japanese butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Japanese butterflyfish live?
The Japanese butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (North), Korea (South), Philippines and others
How big does the Japanese butterflyfish get?
The Japanese butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Japanese butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese 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 Japanese butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Japanese butterflyfish is commonly 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 Japanese butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.