Fin's Fish Guide
The Lattice butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
Raffles' butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, yellow body with a fine lattice pattern on the scales and a dark bar across the eye. It is a rather uncommon species occurring in areas of rich coral growth in lagoons, protected reef flats and seaward reefs. It often swims in pairs. It feeds on sea anemones, bristleworms and the polyps of soft and stony coral. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lattice butterflyfish?
The Lattice butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Fine diamond pattern on yellow scales; often swims in pairs; eats anemones and coral polyps.
Where does the Lattice butterflyfish live?
The Lattice butterflyfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; coral-rich lagoons and reefs.
How big does the Lattice butterflyfish get?
The Lattice butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Lattice butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Lattice butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lattice butterflyfish edible?
The Lattice 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 Lattice butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lattice butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.