Fin's Fish Guide
The Limespot butterflyfish (Chaetodon unimaculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The teardrop butterflyfish is a butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, yellow-white, disc-shaped body with a conspicuous large black, teardrop-shaped blotch mid-flank, to which the name refers, and a black band over the eye. It occurs in small groups on reef flats and clear lagoon and seaward reefs. As an omnivore it eats coral polyps, algae, small invertebrates and worms, also nibbling pieces of soft corals. The species is a popular, beautifully coloured reef dweller and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Limespot butterflyfish?
The Limespot butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Large black, teardrop-shaped flank blotch and a black eye band; beautifully coloured reef dweller.
Where does the Limespot butterflyfish live?
The Limespot butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; reef flats and clear lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Limespot butterflyfish get?
The Limespot butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Limespot butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Limespot butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Limespot butterflyfish edible?
The Limespot 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 Limespot butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Limespot butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.